John Ringling was an American circus owner and one of the founders of the famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Born on May 31, 1866, in Wisconsin, he played a significant role in popularizing the circus in the early 20th century. Ringling was known for his innovative marketing strategies and extravagant performances, which helped the circus become a major entertainment attraction. In addition to his circus endeavors, John Ringling was also a successful businessman and art collector. He invested in real estate and owned several properties, including the Ca' d'Zan, his opulent mansion in Sarasota, Florida. Ringling passed away on December 2, 1936, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.