Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus was a famous American circus known for its elaborate performances featuring acrobats, clowns, and trained animals. Founded in the late 19th century, it combined the shows of Ringling Brothers and P.T. Barnum, creating a grand spectacle that toured across the United States and beyond. The circus was often referred to as "The Greatest Show on Earth." The circus was renowned for its iconic three-ring format, allowing multiple acts to perform simultaneously. It faced criticism over the treatment of animals and eventually closed in 2017 after more than a century of entertaining audiences.