P. T. Barnum (1810-1891) was an American showman, politician, and businessman remembered for promoting celebrated hoaxes and for founding the Barnum & Bailey Circus. He was also an author and publisher. According to his critics, his personal aim was only to make money for himself. Barnum is widely credited with coining the adage "There's a sucker born every minute." He wrote several books which had motivation, inspiration, and personal success for theme. One of Barnum's more successful methods of self-promotion was mass publication of his autobiography. At one point the number of copies printed was second only to the New Testament in North America.
