Phineas Taylor Barnum was an American showman, businessman, and entertainer who is best known for founding the Barnum & Bailey Circus. He was also a writer, publisher, and philanthropist. Barnum was born in 1810 and died in 1891. He was a pioneer in the development of the modern entertainment industry, and his career spanned five decades. He was also a successful businessman, having founded several companies, including the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Barnum was also a philanthropist, donating to numerous charities and causes throughout his life.