ICONIC CORPSE: The Exploitation of Julia Pastrana
Caitlin Doughty・2 minutes read
Julia Pastrana endured a life of exploitation due to her appearance as the "Ape Woman," showcased by showmen like Theodore Lent, and her body was continuously displayed for profit until finally being repatriated and buried in Sinaloa de Leyva in 2013, thanks to the efforts of Laura Anderson Barbata.
Insights
- Julia Pastrana, known for her unique appearance, faced exploitation and objectification during her life, being showcased as a spectacle primarily for her physical features rather than her talents.
- After more than a century, Julia's remains were repatriated to Mexico and laid to rest in Sinaloa de Leyva, marking a significant moment in acknowledging her humanity and providing closure to her tumultuous story.
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Recent questions
Who was Julia Pastrana?
Julia Pastrana was a woman born with hypertrichosis and gingival hyperplasia, known for being displayed as a spectacle during her life and after her death.
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Summary
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Julia Pastrana: Life, Exploitation, and Repatriation
- Julia Pastrana, born with hypertrichosis and gingival hyperplasia, was displayed as a spectacle during her life and after her death.
- After 153 years, Julia's body was repatriated to Mexico and buried in Sinaloa de Leyva.
- Julia's early life involved being hidden in a cave, orphaned, sold to a circus, and living with Governor Pedro Sanchez.
- Despite her talents in singing and dancing, Julia was primarily known for her appearance as the "Ape Woman."
- Julia was exploited by showmen like Theodore Lent, who profited off her unique features and even proposed marriage to her.
- Julia died after childbirth, and her body, along with her son's, was embalmed using a new method by Professor Sokolov.
- Julia's body was displayed in various locations, exploited for profit, until finally being buried in 2013 in Sinaloa de Leyva after years of petitioning and efforts by Laura Anderson Barbata.
