After 146 years of touring the country, the “Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey” circus will be coming to a close. The last performances will take place in May of 2017, before the company permanently closes.

“The decision to end the circus tours was made as a result of high costs coupled with a decline in ticket sales, making the circus an unsustainable business for the company,” Feld Entertainment stated in a press release on Jan. 14. “Following the transition of the elephants off the circus, the company saw a decline in ticket sales greater than could have been anticipated.”

“The Greatest Show on Earth” has also dealt with many lawsuits and problems with animal activist groups concerning the cruelty of the performers prior to the closing announcement. The circus even removed elephants from the circus, one of the main trademarks of their show, due to these protests and criticisms. The Asian Elephants are now at an elephant conservation center run by Ringling Bro’s. in Florida.

Many people and groups are overjoyed that the circus is finally coming to a close. PETA (the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) sent out a tweet stating “BREAKING: After 36 years of protests, #RinglingBros Circus will shut down in May. Thank you to all who spoke out!” A photo was attached to the tweet featuring photos of elephants and other animals being treated cruelly.

Whether or not one believes in the morals of the “Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey” circus, it is undeniable that it served as a huge role in American history and culture. The circus created a new standard of entertainment and a community where all is accepted. These values of pride and showmanship will continue to thrive thanks to the legacy that the circus will leave behind.