A Different View of the World

The circus was a popular way for everyday people to experience parts of the world they would never see first-hand. This vintage photo shows a group of kids huddled around a lion right before a performance. Zoos and affordable worldwide travel weren’t as widespread back in the day. A traveling circus was often the only opportunity people got to see exotic animals. 

Most of us take a visit to the zoo for granted these days. But can you imagine seeing a giant lioness for the first time? Seeing these larger-than-life animals perform under the big top must have been truly thrilling. Although circuses aren’t as popular as they once were, we understand the appeal for people of bygone eras.