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Following the fall of Rome, Europe lacked a large and organized circus. Itinerant showmen traveled the fair grounds of Europe. Animal trainers and performers are thought to have exploited the nostalgia for the Roman circus, traveling between towns and performing at local fairs. Another possible link between the Roman and modern circus could have been bands of gypsies who appeared in Europe in the 14th century and in Britain from the 15th century bringing with them circus skills and trained animals.
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