ADLER, FELIX

(1895-1960)

   Born in Clinton, Iowa, Felix Adler became one of the most famous white-faced clowns in America for the Ringling Circus. His grotesque white makeup, exaggerated costumes (often in drag) with a tiny hat, giant shoes, and overly padded derriere, delighted audiences during the first half of the 20th century. Often compared with the legendary Dan Rice, Adler borrowed Rice's trademark gimmick of bringing a piglet into the ring with him and feeding it from a baby bottle. Adler was also a producer and created routines for many of the clowns in the Ringling organization.

(1851-1933)

   American philosopher and educator. He founded the Society for Ethical Culture in 1876, and in 1902 was appointed professor of social ethics at Columbia University. He viewed ethical culture as a way of applying morality to modern life. An elaboration of his philosophy is contained in An Ethical Philosophy of Life.