Chapter

The High-Wire Life of Circus Performers
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26:18 - 32:32 (06:13)

The dangers of circus high-wire performances are highlighted, including the risks to performers' balance in strong winds and the numerous accidents that have occurred over the years.

Clips
The Flying Wallendas made a name for themselves performing acrobatics on a high wire, without harnesses or nets.
26:18 - 27:50 (01:31)
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acrobatics
Summary

The Flying Wallendas made a name for themselves performing acrobatics on a high wire, without harnesses or nets. However, the dangerous act took its toll with multiple tragedies, including deaths and injuries from falls, including during the infamous Hartford Circus Fire.

Chapter
The High-Wire Life of Circus Performers
Episode
Selects: How Circus Families Work
Podcast
Stuff You Should Know
The deadliest circus fire in US history occurred due to multiple factors, including blocked exits and flammable material.
27:50 - 28:39 (00:48)
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Circus
Summary

The deadliest circus fire in US history occurred due to multiple factors, including blocked exits and flammable material. There have been several circus fires due to tents coated in flammable material and the prevalence of smoking around them.

Chapter
The High-Wire Life of Circus Performers
Episode
Selects: How Circus Families Work
Podcast
Stuff You Should Know
We learn about the impressive tightrope walking achievements, such as a 10-person pyramid and traversing the Grand Canyon, and the dangers of wind gusts on tightrope walkers' balance.
28:39 - 30:25 (01:46)
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Tightrope Walking
Summary

We learn about the impressive tightrope walking achievements, such as a 10-person pyramid and traversing the Grand Canyon, and the dangers of wind gusts on tightrope walkers' balance.

Chapter
The High-Wire Life of Circus Performers
Episode
Selects: How Circus Families Work
Podcast
Stuff You Should Know
The legacies of the Hageenie and Wollanda families in woodworking and upholstery craftsmanship respectively, are being passed down through apprenticeships to new generations.
30:25 - 32:32 (02:06)
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Craftsmanship
Summary

The legacies of the Hageenie and Wollanda families in woodworking and upholstery craftsmanship respectively, are being passed down through apprenticeships to new generations.

Chapter
The High-Wire Life of Circus Performers
Episode
Selects: How Circus Families Work
Podcast
Stuff You Should Know