Circus History
Known for exotic animals, chariot races, and gladiatorial exhibitions, this civilization was credited as being the first to introduce circus performances.
Roman
This is the name given to the tent-like structure sometimes used to this day by travelling circus acts.
The Big Top
This animal was commonly used as a suspenseful show of discipline for the audience, with its tamer often seen putting their head in its mouth.
Lion
The name of the person, often the leader, of a circus. This person introduces the acts.
The Ringmaster
This popular carnival food is made by deep-frying batter, then sprinkling powdered sugar over top.
Funnel Cake
Jules Leotard was the first to perform this thrilling, aerial act.
The Flying Trapeze
The French word for "circus".
Cirque
This animal was historically famous for jumping through a ring of fire. This act is no longer performed for the animal's safety.
Tiger
Performing in this "ring" indicates a main event, or the "highest status" of performer rank.
Center Ring
Thinner than human hair, this food is fat free, gluten free, and healthier than many desserts available at a circus event.
Cotton Candy
This continent has never had a circus performance conducted in it.
Antarctica
Famously spoken by P.T. Barnum, "There's a _____ born every minute."
Sucker
The first elephant performer acquired by the Barnum and Bailey Circus.
Jumbo
Performers employed as comic relief, often to decrease tension after particularly breathtaking routines.
Clowns
A circus staple commonly sold to and consumed by spectators, this food is actually taboo for performers to eat backstage before a show.
Peanuts
In 1944, the Ringling Bros circus experienced this devastating tragedy, impacting its ability to performance and marking its name in the history books.
Fire
A human cannonball can travel up to this speed, simulating driving down the highway without a windshield.
60-70mph
In some circuses, this animal was trained to balance on large balls, ride a bicycle, and even wave to the audience.
Bear
The oldest form of circus entertainment, performed in the first ever Roman circus as a display of manual dexterity and coordination.
Juggling
Popcorn has been around since around this date.
400 B.C.
Phillip _____ was credited with establishing the first permanent circus building as well as having invented the circus "ring" in 1769.
Astley
It is circus superstition that bringing one of these feathers into the ring is bad luck.
Peacock Feather
The type of elephant formerly used in most circus performances.
Indian Elephant
Tightrope Walker
Nabisco, the popular snack company, was the first to sell this item in boxes.
Animal Crackers