It's The Greatest Showman Based On A True Story
When "The Greatest Showman" hit theaters in 2017, it became an instant box office hit. The film, which stars Hugh Jackman as P.T. Barnum, tells the story of how Barnum created the Barnum & Bailey Circus. But how much of the movie is actually based on a true story? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history behind "The Greatest Showman."
The Life of P.T. Barnum
Phineas Taylor Barnum, better known as P.T. Barnum, was born in 1810 in Connecticut. He began his career as a showman in the 1830s, when he purchased Joice Heth, a slave who claimed to be 161 years old and the former nurse of George Washington. Barnum exhibited Heth in a traveling show and made a fortune off of her.
Over the years, Barnum became known for his extravagant shows and exhibits, including the Feejee Mermaid (a hoax involving a monkey's head and a fish's body), Tom Thumb (a tiny person), and the Jenny Lind Tour (a concert tour featuring the famous singer). In 1871, Barnum merged with James Bailey to create the Barnum & Bailey Circus, which became the "Greatest Show on Earth."
The Inspiration for "The Greatest Showman"
The idea for "The Greatest Showman" came from the real-life story of P.T. Barnum, but the movie takes many creative liberties with the details. For example, in the film, Barnum is portrayed as a family man who is driven to create the circus in order to provide for his wife and children. However, in real life, Barnum had already established himself as a showman long before he created the circus, and he did not have children until later in life.
Additionally, the movie portrays Barnum as a champion of diversity and inclusivity, featuring characters such as the bearded lady and the trapeze artist who are shunned by society but find acceptance in Barnum's circus. While it's true that Barnum did employ people with physical differences in his shows, it's unclear how much of his motivation was driven by a desire to challenge societal norms versus a desire to make money.
The Accuracy of "The Greatest Showman"
Despite the liberties taken by the movie, there are some elements of "The Greatest Showman" that are based on true events. For example, the character of Jenny Lind (played by Rebecca Ferguson) is based on a real-life opera singer who toured the United States with Barnum in the 1850s. The film's depiction of the fire at the circus in 1865 is also based on a real-life tragedy that claimed the lives of over 100 people.
Overall, while "The Greatest Showman" takes many creative liberties with the story of P.T. Barnum, it still provides an entertaining glimpse into the life and times of one of the most famous showmen in history. Whether or not you're a fan of musicals, the film is definitely worth a watch for its catchy songs, stunning visuals, and inspiring message of acceptance and inclusion.
The Legacy of P.T. Barnum
While the Barnum & Bailey Circus officially closed its doors in 2017 after a 146-year run, the legacy of P.T. Barnum lives on. Barnum's innovative marketing techniques, such as using billboards and posters to promote his shows, are still used today. Additionally, his belief in the power of entertainment to bring people together has had a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.
Whether you're a fan of "The Greatest Showman" or simply interested in the history of show business, the story of P.T. Barnum is one that is well worth exploring. From his early days as a showman to his creation of the world-famous circus, Barnum's life is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks.