The first circus began in ancient Rome, but it was much bloodier than the circus we know today.
- the first circus, Circus Maximus, originated under Julius Caesar
- Ancient circuses were specialized in bloody events; empoeror and spectators were upset if no one died.
- Which event featured depended on the emperor in power
- Julius Caesar liked chariot races, slaves raced for freedom and risked their lives, often dying in the process
- dragged around the ring when they couldn't cut themselves free
- During the reign of Augustus, hundreds of gladiators died, taking with them more than 3,500 lions and tigers
- Under Nero, Christians were thrown to the lions
- Colosseum in Rome staged biggest circuses
- held 50,000
- in one season, 2,000 gladiators went to their deaths
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