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KittyWampus

(55,894 posts)
Sat Mar 15, 2014, 02:26 PM Mar 2014

New Book Called "Topsy: The Startling Story of the Crooked Tailed Elephant"

Edison electrocuted an elephant using alternating current (and poison) to make it appear too dangerous.

In 1903, on Coney Island, an elephant named Topsy was electrocuted, and over the past century, this bizarre, ghoulish execution has reverberated through popular culture with the whiff of urban legend. But it really happened, and many historical forces conspired to bring Topsy, Thomas Edison, and those 6600 volts of alternating current together that day.


Topsy: The Startling Story of the Crooked Tailed Elephant, P.T. Barnum, and the American Wizard, Thomas Edison

http://www.amazon.com/Topsy-Startling-Crooked-Elephant-American/dp/0802119042/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1394907709&sr=8-1&keywords=topsy

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