In 2025, society has come a long way, but looking back to the 19th century, some practices were deeply troubling. One such practice was “freak shows,” where people with physical differences were displayed for entertainment. One of these individuals, Mary Ann Bevan, became known as the “Ugliest Woman in the World,” and her story highlights the exploitation of people for profit.Born in London in 1874, Mary Ann was a beautiful nurse with a promising future until her husband died, and she developed acromegaly, a disease causing her face and body to enlarge. Her appearance changed drastically, making it hard for her to find work, and she was eventually forced to join a circus after responding to an ad that described her as the “Ugliest Woman.”Mary Ann became a star at the Coney Island Circus, where she was put on display for her unusual appearance. Despite the public’s fascination, some doctors spoke out against the exploitation. However, Mary Ann endured, earning enough money to send her children to school, although she had to endure ridicule.She continued working in the circus until 1925 and died in 1933, at the age of 59. Mary Ann’s story is a tragic reminder of the exploitation that occurred in the past and her self-sacrifice to provide for her children. She is buried in London, fulfilling her last wish.
On a cool autumn evening, the Royal Beacon Hotel buzzed with elegance. Marissa, the young receptionist, prided herself on maintaining the elite ambiance and believed she could spot the ‘right’ guests. Near midnight, a tall Black man in a hoodie and jeans entered, his face kind but tired. “Good evening, I’d like a room for…
Wolves have a reputation for being aggressive and fierce creatures, and many people, including me, would be downright frightened to actually meet one face to face. The large grey wolf seen walking alongside Danielle in the beginning is named Kekoa, which in Hawaiian means “brave one.” While she still demands a certain respect, she also seems to…
The US Senate recently blocked efforts to halt the sale of certain US weapons to Israel, a move introduced in response to concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Senator Bernie Sanders led the push through joint resolutions of disapproval to prevent the Biden administration’s $20 billion arms sale to Israel. However, the resolutions failed…
When a couple left their Los Angeles home for separate trips out of state, they had no idea that wildfires would break out in their neighborhood, putting their dogs in danger. Fortunately, two CBS employees were on hand to save the day. On January 7, 2025, when the Palisades fires in Los Angeles began, a…
Meпtal health has become a critical topic iп receпt years, recogпized for its profoυпd impact oп iпdividυals aпd commυпities. It eпcompasses emotioпal, psychological, aпd social well-beiпg, iпflυeпciпg how people thiпk, feel, aпd act. Disorders sυch as aпxiety, depressioп, bipolar disorder, aпd schizophreпia caп sigпificaпtly affect daily life. However, stigma ofteп preveпts iпdividυals from seekiпg help,…
There’s a reason why music has been a staple of cultures all around the world for as long as humans have been… well, human. Music connects us all on a profound level; it inspires us, emboldens us, hits us with nostalgia and caresses us with emotion. It can do all that and much more, which…
