REVIEW OF ARTICLES THIS WEEK Making History Come Alive Newsletter offers the story of Annie Jones, known as the "Bearded Lady"

Annie Jones, known as the "Bearded Lady," was a prominent figure in the world of circus sideshows during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Virginia in 1865, Annie exhibited a rare genetic condition called hypertrichosis, which caused excessive hair growth on her face and body. Instead of concealing or being ashamed of her condition, Annie embraced her unique appearance and turned it into a source of empowerment and financial independence.

Annie's early life was marked by challenges and discrimination due to her unusual physical characteristics. Growing up in a society that often equated beauty with hairlessness, she faced taunts and ridicule from her peers. However, as Annie matured, she realized that her extraordinary appearance could be a ticket to a better life. In the late 19th century, circus sideshows were a popular form of entertainment, featuring a diverse array of performers with unique talents and physical attributes. Annie found her niche in this world, where her bearded appearance made her a star attraction.

Joining the Barnum & Bailey Circus at a young age, Annie quickly became known as the "Bearded Lady," captivating audiences with her striking presence and self-assured demeanor. She used her platform to challenge conventional beauty standards and redefine notions of femininity and attractiveness. In an era when women were expected to conform to rigid ideals of appearance and behavior, Annie's confidence and refusal to hide her natural self made her a trailblazer for self-acceptance and body positivity.

Annie's success as a sideshow performer not only brought her personal fulfillment but also financial independence and stability. By leveraging her unique physical trait, she was able to earn a living and support herself in an era when opportunities for women, especially those with unconventional appearances, were limited. Through her work in the circus, Annie was able to travel, meet new people, and experience a level of freedom and autonomy that may have been otherwise out of reach for a woman of her time.

While Annie's career as the "Bearded Lady" was undoubtedly shaped by the sensationalism and exploitation common in the world of sideshows, she also used her platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for self-acceptance and inclusivity. By embracing her difference and sharing her story with audiences around the world, Annie Jones left a lasting legacy as a pioneer of body positivity and a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.

Annie's impact extended beyond her time in the circus, inspiring future generations to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their individuality.