The Magical Life of Al Flosso: A Legendary Circus Performer and Animal Trainer

The Coney Island Fakir: The Magical Life of Al Flosso

by Bassey Ikpi

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	303 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	221 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Early Life and Career

Al Flosso was born in Hannibal, Missouri, on February 20, 1864. His father, a German immigrant, was a blacksmith, and his mother was a homemaker. As a young boy, Al developed a fascination with animals, spending countless hours observing them at the local zoo.

At the age of 16, Al ran away from home to join the circus. He traveled with various small circuses, learning the ropes of circus life. In 1884, he joined Barnum & Bailey, the largest and most famous circus in the world at the time.

Master Animal Trainer

Flosso quickly became known for his exceptional ability to train animals. He developed a unique method of communication using hand signals and positive reinforcement. His animals were renowned for their intelligence and obedience.

Flosso's most famous animals included Jumbo, the largest elephant in the world, and Rajah, a majestic Bengal tiger. He also trained lions, bears, horses, and other animals.

Inventing the Three-Ring Circus

In 1904, Flosso joined forces with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey to create the first three-ring circus. This revolutionary concept allowed for multiple acts to perform simultaneously, greatly increasing the excitement and spectacle of the show.

Flosso's animal acts were a major highlight of the three-ring circus. His elephants performed intricate formations, while his tigers jumped through flaming hoops and performed daring tricks.

Legacy and Impact

Al Flosso died in 1938 at the age of 74. He left behind a legacy as one of the greatest circus performers and animal trainers of all time.

Flosso's innovations revolutionized the circus industry and continue to influence circus performances today. He also played a significant role in the development of modern animal training techniques.

Flosso's life has been immortalized in various forms, including the 2017 film The Greatest Showman, which depicts his relationship with the famous circus impresario P.T. Barnum.

Al Flosso was a true legend of the circus world. His extraordinary talent, showmanship, and innovations continue to inspire and entertain audiences to this day. His legacy as a master animal trainer and pioneer of the three-ring circus will forever be etched in the annals of entertainment history.

The Coney Island Fakir: The Magical Life of Al Flosso

by Bassey Ikpi

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	303 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	221 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE