P.T. Barnum (Radio Edit) - a podcast by BBC Radio 4

Greg Jenner is joined by historian Prof Benjamin Reiss and comedian Desiree Burch in 19th-century America to meet the self-proclaimed showman, P.T. Barnum. He was a man famous for his museums and shows as well as "curiosities" such as General Tom Thumb, Bearded Ladies and The Fiji Mermaid. But look beyond Barnum’s infamous spin and you’ll find that contrary to his pop culture image this showman was far from the greatest.

For the full-length version of this episode, please look further back in the feed.

Produced by Cornelius Mendez
Script by Greg Jenner and Emma Nagouse
Research by Charlotte Potter

A production by The Athletic for BBC Radio 4.

Further episodes of You're Dead to Me

Further podcasts by BBC Radio 4

Website of BBC Radio 4