Analyze the debate and controversy about P.T. Barnum in his heyday

Humanities

P.T. Barnum was one of the most famous and most controversial Americans of his day. Critics accused Barnum of swindling Americans by charging them money to view his hoaxes and “humbugs,” and the word “Barnumesque” was synonymous with deceit. Barnum denied that he was cheating his customers, and insisted that he was not only entertaining his patrons, but even educating them. As you read Barnum’s autobiography, do you find Barnum an appealing showman? A shrewd businessman? A crooked con man? How did he justify his actions? Why was he so popular and successful? Why was he so controversial? Why were hoaxes such an important issue in the 19th century?