Portrait of P.T. Barnum

P.T. Barnum

Showman, circus, hoaxes

Contemporary weird famous 162 sayings

Sayings by P.T. Barnum

The public likes to be astonished, and it likes to be amused.

1865 — From 'The Humbugs of the World'
General Unverifiable

I don't care what you say about me, as long as you say something about me.

Late 19th century — Attributed, a common show business sentiment
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The road to success is always under construction.

Late 19th century — Attributed
General Unverifiable

I have been called a charlatan, a humbug, a cheat. But I have always given the public their money's worth.

1869 — From his autobiography
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The greatest show on Earth is life itself.

Late 19th century — Attributed
Food & Drink Unverifiable

Politeness and good humor are as much in demand as good merchandise.

1880 — From 'The Art of Money Getting'
General Unverifiable

I was born a showman, and I shall die a showman.

c. 1880s — Reported statement
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The public likes to be surprised, and I like to surprise them.

c. 1870s — From his writings
General Unverifiable

If you wish to succeed in life, you must be a little bit of a humbug.

Mid-19th century — Attributed
General Unverifiable

I have always believed that the best way to serve God is to serve mankind.

1869 — From his autobiography
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The public is never tired of a good thing.

c. 1870s — Reported statement
General Unverifiable

I am not in the business of selling truth. I am in the business of selling entertainment.

Mid-19th century — Attributed
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The cheapest advertising is a satisfied customer.

Late 19th century — Attributed
General Unverifiable

I am a firm believer in the power of curiosity.

c. 1860s — From his writings
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The best show in the world is the one you are about to see.

Late 19th century — Attributed, a common promotional phrase
General Unverifiable

I always leave 'em wanting more.

Late 19th century — Attributed, a theatrical adage
General Unverifiable

There is no royal road to anything. One thing at a time, all things in succession. That which grows fast, withers as rapidly. That which grows slowly, endures.

1880 — From 'The Art of Money Getting'
General Unverifiable

I have found that the public will pay for what they like, and they will like what they are told to like.

c. 1850s — Reported statement
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable

The public is a great beast, but it can be tamed.

Mid-19th century — Attributed
Food & Drink Unverifiable

I am not a philanthropist. I am a showman. But I believe in doing good while doing well.

1869 — From his autobiography
Self-Deprecating Unverifiable
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