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  • February 2022 (Revised October 2022)
  • Case
  • HBS Case Collection

P.T. Barnum: Changing the World

By: Robert Simons and Shirley Sun
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:24
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Abstract

This case describes the life of P.T. Barnum, widely considered to the be the father of modern advertising and marketing. Barnum showed his genius for business early, selling lottery tickets and confections from his father’s store. He went on to found a famous museum of curiosities that attracted millions of visitors and the world’s most famous circus. The case describes his unconventional business choices driven by his lifelong desire to make people happy. His entertainment was often controversial, however, leading to spirited in-class discussions.

Keywords

Entertainment; Entrepreneurship; Personal Characteristics; Marketing; Success; Values and Beliefs; Mission and Purpose; Entertainment and Recreation Industry; United States; Europe

Citation

Simons, Robert, and Shirley Sun. "P.T. Barnum: Changing the World." Harvard Business School Case 122-076, February 2022. (Revised October 2022.)
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About The Author

Robert Simons

Accounting and Management
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Related Work

    • November 2022 (Revised October 2024)
    • Faculty Research

    P.T. Barnum: Changing the World

    By: Robert Simons and Shirley Sun
    • February 2022 (Revised October 2022)
    • Faculty Research

    P.T. Barnum: Changing the World

    By: Robert Simons and Shirley Sun
Related Work
  • P.T. Barnum: Changing the World By: Robert Simons and Shirley Sun
  • P.T. Barnum: Changing the World By: Robert Simons and Shirley Sun
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