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Civil War reenactors: Walter P. Calahan

Sun: NASA

Crocodile: Michael Turco

Clay faces: Kenneth Garrett, NG Image Collection

Fighting for History
The Civil War tore America apart. Today many Americans study that key conflict in a special way. They relive it.


	THE SUN: OUR STORMY STAR "It's not a boring white disk," says scientist Bernhard Fleck about our sun. In fact, our local star is a busy place. The core burns like a giant furnace. Cool sunspots come and go on the surface. And huge explosions send streams of light and heat thousands of miles into space. Visit our stormy star on page 10 of our April 2005 issue. Explore More Glen Phelan, Earth, Sun, Moon (National Geographic Reading Expeditions, 2004) Wordwise Challenge: Sunny Words Think you're bright enough to spot these sunny words? Be sure to wear your shades. Exploratorium: Sunspots These dark spots of cooler temperature on the sun's surface have fascinated humans for centuries. Check out the ancient legends and modern science of sunspots. Windows to the Universe: The Sun Read ancient myths, view recent photos, and get all the hottest sun facts.


	CROC DOC The Everglades is a wetlands habitat in southern Florida. Many birds and other animals live there. It is the only place in the world where both alligators and crocodiles live. But the Everglades is in trouble. Scientists believe the habitat is shrinking. Frank Mazzotti, a scientist who studies crocodiles, is trying to save these reptiles and their home. Meet the "Croc Doc" on page 16 of our April 2005 issue. Explore More Andrew Collins, Exploring the Everglades (National Geographic Windows on Literacy, 2003) Skurzynski and Ferguson, Mysteries in Our National Parks: Deadly Waters (National Geographic, 2001) Game: Exploring the Everglades Canoe into the wild swamps of southern Florida and meet some cool creatures. Can you identify them? NG Channel: World of the Crocodilians Explore this interactive map to find alligators, crocodiles, and caimans around the world. NG Creature Feature: Nile Crocodiles Find fun facts, video clips, maps, and more about the American crocodile's African relative. NG News: Conservationists Prowl Swamps to Save Florida Crocs Crocodiles in Florida have been in big trouble for years. Learn what one scientist is doing to help them survive. National Park Service: The Everglades Ecosystem Learn more about this unique national park and the many rare and endangered species that live there.


	AFGHAN TREASURES: LOST AND FOUND Afghanistan, a country in Asia, was once known for its rich culture and precious artifacts. In the past 25 years, the nation suffered through several terrible wars. Many priceless treasures were lost or destroyed. Recently, however, a safe in a government building turned out to hold thousands of lost treasures! Museum workers had hidden them during the wars. Read more on page 22 of our April 2005 issue. Explore More National Geographic: Understanding Afghanistan Maps, articles, and more help you explore this war-torn land. NG Country Profile: Afghanistan Get facts, maps, and other information about Afghanistan. NG News: "Lost" Treasures of Afghanistan Revealed Read more about the discovery and view photos of the lost Afghan treasures.