Insta360 unveils Luna Ultra, its Osmo Pocket competitor Insta360 has officially launched the Luna Ultra, a direct competitor to DJI's upcoming Osmo Pocket 4P. Co-engineered by Leica, the dual-lens handheld gimbal camera aims to distinguish itself via its detachable touchscreen, which enables users to operate the camera from a distance...

But we're never going to get there, so what's the bloody point?

Mary Todd was born into privilege in 1818 in Kentucky. Her father was an active businessman in the area, and she had many siblings. Well-educated, Mary became part of the social scene at a young age, a status that would be further bolstered when she married up-and-coming politician Abraham Lincoln just before his aspirations proved fruitful. Despite a life that was often on the front page of the newspaper, Mary suffered at times. Grief became her constant companion, and she endured health issues. Still, she remained involved in political and social causes, raised a family, and remained a dedicated wife even long after Lincolns demise.1. Mary Was Known for Her Quick TemperMary Todd Lincoln by Mathew Benjamin Brady. Source: National Portrait Gallery via Wikimedia CommonsWhile Mary Todd Lincoln was described as possessing a natural kindness of heart, she was well known for her fiery temper. In fact, her husbands private White House secretary referred to her as the hellcat. She was noted to often clash with hired help, even before the White House days. Her husband wasnt immune to her outbursts, and she occasionally let loose on him with public tantrums. Some historians argue that Marys angry outbursts were related to medical issues, and she has been suspected of having a myriad of illnesses, including Lyme disease, cerebral disease, anemia, and diabetes. However, without DNA support, these diagnoses rely only on historical descriptions and cannot be proven to be factual.2. Mary & Her Husband Were Both Motherless at an Early AgeDrawing of the Lincolns by Pierre Morand. Source: National Portrait Gallery via Wikimedia CommonsMary was the daughter of Robert Smith Todd and Eliza Ann Parker Todd of Lexington, Kentucky. The couple had six children in total, with Mary being the third. Their last child, George, was born in 1825, and his delivery was hard on Eliza. She died, likely from childbed fever or another complication related to Georges birth, despite the efforts of three doctors. Mary was only six at the time and devastated by the loss of her mother. Only six months later, her father remarried and went on to have several more children with his new wife. Marys relationship with her stepmother was tenuous, with her fathers new wife referring to Mary as Satans limb.Early life without a mother was an experience with which Mary and her husband Abraham could relate. Lincolns mother, Nancy, died on October 5, 1818, at the age of 34. She is suspected to have perished from an illness known as milk sickness. This occurs when a cow consumes the white snakeroot plant, and toxins from the vegetation infect the animals milk and meat. At just nine years of age, Abraham had to help his father construct a coffin for his mother. Unlike in Marys experience, when Lincolns father remarried, he was blessed with a loving stepmother, Sarah. He described her as a good and kind mother who valued education.3. She Was Fluent in FrenchMrs. Abraham Lincoln from the National Archives. Source: National Archives at College Park via Wikimedia CommonsMary Todd Lincoln was one of the best-educated women of her generation. She spent time at two boarding schools in Lexington, and her father paid extra tuition for French lessons. In addition to French, she received learning opportunities in language arts, mathematics, history, natural sciences, religion, and geography. She also participated in dances, performances, and other extracurriculars during her time at school. Her nine years of education may seem basic today, but in her day, it was extensive schooling, especially for a woman. Mary excelled in her studies and became fluent in French, even performing in plays speaking the language. In her later years, Mary spent time living in Pau, France.4. She and Abe Were Lenient ParentsThe Lincoln family. Source: Library of Congress via Wikimedia CommonsMary and Abraham had four sons: Robert Todd, Edward Baker, William Wallace, and Thomas. Edward died as an infant, and Willie at age 11. However, until Willies death, the younger two sons were particularly close. All three boys enjoyed pranks, especially the younger two, who were described by Lincolns law partner as hellions. The boys were spoiled, with expensive toys, lavish birthday parties, and lenient parents. In an era where children were seen and not heard, the Lincolns were often criticized for letting their sons interrupt conversations and engage in rowdy behavior. Neither of the parents was a tough disciplinarian, and they admitted such. Willie and Todd were even rumored to have been caught smoking cigars behind the sheriffs barn on one occasion.5. Marys Life Was Rife With GriefMary sat beside her husband when he was assassinated in 1865. Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art via Wikimedia CommonsGrief was a common theme in Marys life, from the age of six when she lost her mother until her own death in 1882. Her father died in 1849 after suffering from a bout of cholera. Less than a year later, her son Edward, Eddie, aged only three, passed away from tuberculosis after a sickly infancy. In 1862, her son Willie followed his brother to the grave after a brief illness. Mary never again entered the rooms in the White House where Willie had died or been laid out for mourning. She removed all items of Willies from the home and was bedridden for weeks.Compounding her lifetime of grief was the loss of her husband in 1865. Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a Confederate sympathizer who was angry about Lincolns actions in regard to the Civil War. Mary was holding her husbands hand, watching a play when he was shot. As he was carried to a nearby house, where he soon died, Mary was forcibly removed from her husbands bedside in hysterics.Once again, she was bedridden after the loss, refusing callers and avoiding her husbands funeral services. The final blow came in 1871 with the loss of a third son. Tad became ill with what seemed like a minor cold after returning from some time abroad with his mother. His illness escalated, likely becoming pneumonia, and he died on July 15, 1871, aged just 18. Suffering the loss of both parents, her husband, and three of her four children resulted in bouts of depression and a strained relationship with her surviving son, Robert.6. She Was Criticized for Her SpendingOne of Marys many gowns, a purple velvet piece designed by Elizabeth Keckley. Source: SmithsonianLike most public figures, the press enjoyed vilifying Mary Todd Lincoln when they found the opportunity. One of the contentious issues in Marys public life was her spending. Shopping was one way she managed her grief, and she also felt obligated to look the part of the political elite. She redecorated the White House, spending a four-year budget in just a few months, and was known for having a lavish wardrobe. This was especially offensive to the American public that was suffering during wartime, financially and otherwise. Her spendthrift ways did cause some arguments between her and Abraham, especially when it showed up in the headlines.7. Mrs. Lincoln Was the First to Invite African Americans to the White HouseAn image celebrating Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation. Source: Library of Congress via Wikimedia CommonsThough she did grow up in a household that owned slaves, from a young age, Mary Todd Lincoln was a firm believer in abolition. Her grandmother had operated a safe house for the Underground Railroad, and Mary had assisted her in this endeavor as a young lady. She supported causes such as the Contraband Relief Association, which provided aid to former slaves fleeing the South during the Civil War.Mrs. Lincoln was also the first First Lady to invite African Americans to the White House as guests. One of her closest friends was Elizabeth Keckley, a seamstress and former slave. Keckley was Lincolns personal seamstress, and the two grew closer after both lost sons around the same time. Keckleys son died in the Civil War six months before Willies demise. She was also instrumental in connecting the Lincolns with key abolitionist figures and causes.8. Her Son Requested a Hearing to Have Her Declared InsaneMary in mourning attire sometime between 1865 and 1882. Source: Library of Congress via Wikimedia CommonsAfter Tads death, Robert claimed to be concerned about his mothers erratic behavior. Four years after Tads loss, Robert arranged an insanity trial of which his mother was the subject. At the time, Illinois law required a jury trial for involuntary commitment to an institution, which seemed to be Roberts goal. He said that multiple doctors had recommended the proceedings take place, and on May 19, 1875, they commenced. Mary was unaware of what was happening when she was forcibly taken to the courthouse. 17 witnesses testified about Marys mental health, including Robert, who stated, I have no doubt my mother is insane. She has long been a source of great anxiety to me.It was decided that Mary was legally insane, and she was committed to Bellevue Place, about 90 minutes by train from Chicago. Her confinement lasted only a few months before she recruited lawyers to contest her commitment. Nine months later, a Chicago court declared her sane. Mary and Robert continued to have a tense relationship, arguing over control of money and other aspects of Abraham and Marys estates.

Throughout history, various diseases have been influential on the human experience. Some have altered world populations, others have led to changing ways of life and social norms. Several of these diseases have been seemingly lost to history, or at least become so well controlled that they dont impact daily life for most today. However, some illnesses remain troubling to global populations. One of these illnesses is tuberculosis. What is this grim affliction, and why does it continue to be a part of the human story in a time when modern medicine has offered so much progress?What Is TB?The bacterium that causes tuberculosis viewed under a microscope. Source: CDC via Wikimedia CommonsTuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is a bacterial infection that has ravaged global populations for centuries. It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and just a few of these organisms can lead to infection. These bacteria are spread through the air when infected persons release them by coughing, sneezing, or spitting. When the pathogens are then inhaled by a nearby individual, they can become infected.The symptoms of TB vary depending on what part of the body is infected by the TB bacteria. The lungs are the most commonly affected part of the body, and their infection causes symptoms such as coughing and chest pain. The coughs may be productive, spewing mucus or blood. Systemic, or whole-body symptoms of TB include appetite and weight loss, chills, fever, and general fatigue. Without treatment, or if treatment fails, TB can be fatal.Vaccines against TB are not commonly used in the United States and other countries where TB is less common. Source: Library of Congress via Wikimedia CommonsThere is a vaccine for tuberculosis, known as Bacille Calmette-Guerin, or BCG. It is not heavily used in many developed countries, but is given to infants and children in countries where TB is a common diagnosis. Over time, the vaccine becomes less effective. If a TB infection is suspected, testing is recommended. There are blood tests and skin tests. The skin test should not be used if the patient has had a vaccine against TB, as it can skew the results. Treatment plans for active TB can be complicated and take several months to be considered complete. They usually consist of a specialized combination of antibiotics depending on the individual patients case and length of illness.Tuberculosis Through HistoryA lung cavity of a tuberculosis patient. The disease caused thickening of the bronchial walls and caused pneumonia. Source: Yale Rosen via Wikimedia CommonsTuberculosis has been intertwined with human medicine since early recorded history. Mummies from Egypt dating to 2400 BC have shown signs of the disease. TB was referenced in Greek Literature as phthisis, or consumption, a term that was used consistently in relation to the disease throughout history. 17th century medical literature described the symptoms in more detail, including the tubercles, small masses that appear in the lungs with ongoing infection and which give the disease its common name. It would be many years before the idea of germ theory and the proposition that TB was caused by a living organism was accepted.In the 19th century, French doctor Jean-Antoine Villemin proved that tuberculosis could pass between humans and cattle, making it a zoonotic affliction. The bacteria were finally able to be viewed and positively identified in 1882, when Robert Koch created a staining technique to view them under a microscope.TB soon proved resistant to a number of early treatments. Source: Ajay Kumar Chaurasiya/Wikimedia CommonsTreatment was an ongoing struggle for tuberculosis patients, with the most common prescription often consisting of rest and dry, fresh air. Sanatoriums began cropping up around the world, centers that specialized specifically in the treatment of TB. In the 1940s, discoveries regarding effective antibiotics against TB began to emerge. Early hopeful TB fighters soon proved futile, as the bacteria quickly developed resistance. Over time, this became a common obstacle, leading to ongoing research and drug combinations to treat the disease.Famous PatientsA 1930s advertisement in which a mother appeals to a nurse to save her child from tuberculosis. Source: Wellcome Images via Wikimedia CommonsTuberculosis has plagued people from all walks of life throughout history. Some TB sufferers made their mark in history regardless of their infection. Still, the significance of TB on their lives leads one to consider and recognize the impact that this disease has had on humanity and the events, literature, art, and politics that have shaped its history.The Bronte FamilyA painting of one of the Bronte sisters, either Emily or Anne, by their brother Patrick. Source: National Portrait Gallery via Wikimedia CommonsIn the mid-18th century, the Bronte literary family was heavily touched by tuberculosis. The matriarch, Maria, died from the disease, and five of her six children would eventually fall to TB. Three of the most famous members of the family, Emily, Anne, and Charlotte, all accomplished authors, died as a result of the illness.Doc HollidayA wanted poster including Doc Holliday. Source: Wikimedia CommonsFamed dentist, gambler, and gunslinger John Henry Doc Holliday lived a life that was heavily impacted by tuberculosis. When he was 15, he lost his mother to the disease, and likely contracted his own infection from her. His hard-living existence in the western heat exacerbated his symptoms, and a few years after the famed shootout at the OK Corral, he moved to Colorado, hopeful that the mountain air would soothe his suffering. He died from the disease a year later.Ho Chi Minh1946 portrait of Ho Chi Minh. Source: Wikimedia CommonsHo Chi Minh, the communist revolutionary who served as the first president of North Vietnam, died of an apparent heart attack, but was also a known sufferer of tuberculosis. Interestingly, the city that bears his name, Ho Chi Minh City, was identified as a tuberculosis hotspot in a study that ran from 2020-2023. The study found that almost 40,000 people were receiving treatment for the disease within the city, with about 1,500 cases considered drug-resistant.George OrwellGeorge Orwell in a press photo. Source: Branch of the National Union of Journalists via Wikimedia CommonsA well-known author of dystopian stories such as 1984 and Animal Farm, George Orwell was also a longtime tuberculosis sufferer. He was diagnosed with the disease in 1938. He spent several months in a sanatorium, and recovered to an extent. However, nine years later, his symptoms returned in full force, and this time, a stay in a sanatorium didnt improve his condition. He was treated with antibiotics, but continued to suffer and was hospitalized in 1949. He died in 1950 from complications of the disease.Tuberculosis TodayA map illustrating modern tuberculosis deaths from 2019. Source: MDWiki via Wikimedia CommonsEven though it has been around for ages, tuberculosis is still very prevalent. Every year, about ten million people worldwide become ill from the disease. Of these, about one and a half million die annually. TB currently reigns as the worlds biggest infectious killer. For people with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV or another chronic illness, TB can hit harder, and is a leading cause of death.Though the disease is present worldwide, it is more common in low-income countries. About a quarter of the global population is estimated to have been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis at some point, though most will never develop the illness. These people cannot pass the bacteria onto others unless they develop an infection, which they have a 5-10% lifetime risk of doing. The World Health Organization (WHO) monitors TB on a global scale and compiles an annual report on the status of the disease worldwide.An early 20th-century tuberculosis camp. Source: Library of Congress via Wikimedia CommonsThis report and other data have indicated a rise in tuberculosis incidence around the world in recent years. 2023 saw the highest number of reported cases since global TB monitoring began in 1995. Experts offer numerous theories on why this is the case, but largely attribute the rise to underfunded research and management programs, the cost of treatment, and the aftermath of COVID-19 shutdowns, which limited access to care.Another concern with tuberculosis is antibiotic resistance, a trend that TB is directly related to. The consistent use, or overuse of antibiotics in medical care can result in the targeted bacteria becoming accustomed to them and able to fend off their therapeutic effects. This makes the bacteria harder to kill. Drug resistant TB bacteria can be mono-resistant, meaning they are able to survive through antibiotic treatment with one particular drug, or poly-resistant bacteria that are resistant to at least two common TB drugs. Drug-resistant TB can prolong treatment and increase the risk of complications or death.Tuberculosis growing in medium. Source: Aleksandr Rodionov/Wikimedia CommonsTuberculosis has long been a pestilence against humanity, and it remains a serious concern. Still affecting thousands globally, TB has been reduced, but is far from eliminated. TB and the way that the medical community handles it continues to evolve, but it will likely remain a major factor for humankind for years to come.

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These Cornbread Butter Swim Biscuits combine the rich flavor of cornbread with the buttery texture of classic butter swim biscuits. Easy, fluffy, and perfect for any meal. Why Youll Love These Cornbread Butter Swim Biscuits If you love classic Southern cornbread and buttery homemade biscuits, these Cornbread Butter Swim Biscuits give you the best of...

Teriyaki Salad Dressing is a quick homemade dressing with sweet and savory flavors thats perfect for salads, bowls, wraps, and dipping!A Creamy Yet Light Salad DressingThis Teriyaki Salad Dressing comes together in just minutes and works with so much more than salad! Its a simple homemade dressing that adds tons of flavor to everything from leafy green salads to noodle bowls, wraps, and dipping sauces. Keep a batch in the fridge for use when youre making your easy lunches, quick dinners, or meal prep throughout the week!Frequently Asked Questions:Is Teriyaki Salad Dressing sweet? It has a balance of sweet and savory flavors without being overpoweringly sweet. What else could I add? Add a little fresh ginger for even more of a pop. You could add some cooked chicken into the salad I have shown as well. Grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, or even crispy tofu would pair well with this dressing. What should I use this dressing on? Theres so many reasons to make and use Teriyaki Salad Dressing. Obviously, its great on a salad of leafy greens, like youll see, it is shown here with some mandarin oranges and chow mein noodles. I think this would be absolutely delicious over a cole slaw mix. I also think it could be great as a different dipping sauce for dumplings or spring rolls! Or if youre making an Asian bowl with soba noodles, etc this could definitely be used on that. So, lots of uses other than just salad! How to store Teriyaki Salad Dressing? Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir or whisk before serving if it separates slightly. This dressing is not recommended for freezing. Ingredients Needed: (See Recipe Card Below For The Full Recipe)Kewpie mayonnaise This is a Japanese mayonnaise that is sold in the United States now. I can find it in my small town so I know it is readily available in most areas. It may be on the the bottom shelf or on a top shelf. See my ingredient image below so you know what to look for. It is a great thick and creamy mayonnaise (thanks to the egg yolks) If you dont have or dont want to use Kewpie mayonnaise, you can use regular mayonnaise. I think Dukes mayonnaise probably has the closest taste to Kewpie.garlic- please try to use freshly minced garlic. This is going to give you the best flavor.granulated sugar this will be the sweet part of the teriyaki dressing. This dressing is meant to have a sweet and sour flavor.seasoned rice vinegar I definitely recommend the seasoned rice vinegar. You can use it for so many things and because there are so few ingredients in here, I think its an important ingredient. You could, of course, use regular vinegar but I think youre going to lose depth of flavor if you have to go that route.soy sauce if you are worried about salt, use a low sodium soy sauce. sesame oil I used a roasted sesame oil (as you can see in the ingredient image below.) You dont need much of this at all as it is a stronger flavor.How To Make Teriyaki Salad DressingPlace the mayonnaise, garlic, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil into a small bowl and whisk to combine.Use immediately or chill until ready to serve. Store in a lidded container (like a mason jar.)Craving More Recipes?Mayonnaise Salad DressingOlive Garden Salad DressingApplebees Oriental Chicken SaladGrilled Teriyaki Chicken SkewersBaked Teriyaki Salmon PrintTeriyaki Salad DressingThis quick Teriyaki Salad Dressing is sweet, savory, and perfect for salads, noodle bowls, wraps, and dipping sauces.Course Condiments, SaladCuisine AmericanPrep Time 5 minutes minutesTotal Time 5 minutes minutesServings 6Calories 159kcalAuthor Brandie SkibinskiIngredients cup Kewpie mayonnaise1 clove garlic minced3 Tablespoons granulated sugar2 Tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar2 teaspoons soy sauce1 teaspoon sesame oilInstructionsPlace the 1/2 cup Kewpie mayonnaise, 1 clove garlic, 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar, 2 1/2 Tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil into a small bowl and whisk to combine. Use immediately or chill until ready to serve. Store in a lidded container (like a mason jar) in the refrigerator. NotesPlease refer to my FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.NutritionCalories: 159kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 15g | Sodium: 231mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 6g