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The evolution into contemporary circus, or 'nouveau cirque', during the late 20th century emphasized theatricality, character, and story over the typical 'big top' and animal performances, exemplified by companies like Cirque du Soleil.

Although notorious for its association with the persecution of Christians, the Circus of Nero also highlights the long-standing tradition of circuses being a site for state propaganda and public spectacle.

The ancient Roman circus was the precursor to the modern circus, where chariot races, gladiatorial combat, and animal fights were held as public spectacles.

The Ringling brothers were influential in transforming the American circus from a small-scale entertainment to a large, sophisticated, and profitable enterprise, leading to a golden age of the circus.

The introduction of electric lighting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries revolutionized the circus, enabling night-time performances and contributing to the magical ambiance of the circus experience.

The Great Depression posed significant challenges to the circus industry, but it also served as an affordable escape for people, reinforcing the circus's role as a resilient form of popular entertainment during economic hardships.

Launched in 1871, Barnum's traveling circus was a key development in making the circus a popular form of entertainment across America, known for its extravagance and the phrase 'The Greatest Show on Earth'.

The Circus Maximus in Rome was an important early influence on the development of the circus, serving as the largest venue for public games related to circus-type entertainment.

The decline of animal acts in the late 20th and early 21st centuries reflects shifting public attitudes toward animal welfare and has prompted circuses to focus more on human performance arts.

The introduction of the circus tent, or 'big top', in the 19th century allowed for the mobility of circuses, making it possible to set up performances in new locations quickly and efficiently.

Under the Soviet regime, the circus was recognized as an art form, heavily subsidized, and used for propaganda, making it an important part of cultural life and international influence during the 20th century.