CURRENT ISSUE
January/February 2022
Features
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The Old Man and the Tree
Ecologists thought these trees had long been torn down in New England. Then Bob Leverett proved them wrong
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A Healing Presence
Kwane Stewart discovers the little-known world of generosity and love
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Guardians of Assur
In its time, the Assyrian capital faced waves of invasions and abandonment. Now a small team of archaeologists are protecting it from more modern threats
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The Wonder Bird
The more scientists learn about the Hudsonian godwit, the more they’re amazed—and worried
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Sister Queens of the North
Over the centuries, Brunhild and Fredegund were dismissed and even parodied. But a new book shows how they outwitted their enemies like few in history
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After the Catch
In the remote Lofoten Islands, youngsters are happy to embrace tradition by collecting the local delicacy and selling their wares
Departments
Picking Up the Pieces
In the wake of crisis and disaster, rescue workers led by the Smithsonian step in to safeguard irreplaceable treasures
Crunch Time
A fussy magnate, a miffed chef and the curious roots of the comfort food we hate to love
Rhythm and Blues
A new view of an original genius who died before he could realize his full potential
Changing Lincoln's Mind
During the Civil War, these individuals convinced the president, altering the course of U.S. history
The Bug That Saved California
The Golden State’s citrus industry faced a lethal threat. The solution would herald a new kind of pest control
From Grunge to Glam
Rebellious youth. Olympic glory. How a goofy American pastime conquered winter
Poetice Justice
The Revolution-era Boston establishment couldn't believe that the young African American woman wrote the exquisite book of poetry
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