Try to imagine living in the 19th century, there is no Internet or TV, no movies, not even radio. There were very limited options for those who wanted thrills that did not involve everyday things, and yet, they had a form of entertainment that was arguably more influential and memorable than anything that we are presented with today, they had the Freak Show.

For a dime or so, you could view all of the world’s horrors and wonders, from midgets to Siamese twins. You would be dazzled with not only their exceptional appearance, but their unique personalities and talents as well. The showmen of these unfortunate celebrities, such as the well-known Barnum & Bailey show and the Ringling Bros, were known and loved throughout the nation.

Human oddities have been featured in circuses for hundreds of years, dating as far back as 1102. Anything that seems to go against nature, as we know it has always been a strong draw for audiences; it captures the imagination and tends to pull out the strongest emotions within us, which range from sorrow, delight, and everything in between.

But, in around 1980, they were banned from the US. Despite all of the sorrow that the freak show caused, it also seemed to have a positive as well, people who usually could not work due to their oddities could now make even more money than a healthy man simplify by displaying their misfortunes, because of this, the performers fought against the idea that their sideshows would become illegal and thousands were left homeless.

But, were they really banned? Today, many TV shows, such as Jerry Springer and the Maury Povich show, have episodes and series dedicated to the unfortunate, Even more so, shows such as “Extraordinary People” and “The Littlest Bride” base the entire premise off of those who are unique physically, even on the internet there are movements such as the one with Adalia Rose. Just like (Legit) freak shows, they are considered employees, not property. They are paid well only to preform talents and show off their disabilities, and they are used as entertainment, yet, this is perfectly legal.

Do we just justify it by saying it’s to spread awareness? Do we not want to admit that we are not above loving to stare at the unusual? But the biggest question of all is: Is this a bad thing? I don’t think so, some of these people have a lot of medical bills to pay and find it difficult to work. I think that they have the right to display their body if they want to, and just like the performers back in the old days, I think sometimes it’s their only choice, to truly ban the freak show would just prove that us normals are in charge and that they are viewed as lesser people.