Barnum, a genius promoter and circus owner, is said to be the first show business millionaire. Michael devoured this biography and distributed copies among his inner circle declaring, “I want my career to be the greatest show on earth.”

One hundred years after Barnum’s death, his face is featured on the Dangerous (1991) album cover.

Rather than homage, it’s an expression of gratitude. Jackson borrows a lot from Barnum.

For example: In 1835, at the age of 25, Barnum staged his first show in which Joice Heth, a wrinkled black woman said to be 161 years old, was introduced as George Washington’s wet nurse. As he launched the show, Barnum wrote to newspapers under pseudonyms. In some letters to the editor, he denounced himself as a swindler. In others, using his true identity, he defended his good faith. He made people curious. The crowds came. Money poured in.

Launching rumors, using the media as a megaphone, increasing pressure, issuing shameless denials — Michael Jackson, thrilled by this role of great hoaxer, appropriates these techniques.

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