October 2008
Smithsonian magazine delivers trusted and incisive reporting on history, science, nature, culture and travel.
Features
New Light on Stonehenge
The first dig in 44 years within the inner circle changes our view of why—and even when—the monument was built
The Secret of San Luis Valley
The discovery of a cancer gene among some Hispanic Catholics in southern Colorado supports the theory that they're descended from "secret Jews" who fled the Spanish Inquisition
Inside Iran's Fury
Scholars trace the nation's antagonism to its history of domination by foreign powers
The Last Doughboy
He lied about his age to serve in World War I. Today, at 107, he says he feels an "obligation" as America's only living link to the great conflict
Bernini's Genius
The Baroque master animated 17th-century Rome with his astonishing sculpture and architecture
Farewell to the King?
For the first time there's no fishing for chinook salmon on the California coast. The search is on for why the prize catch is so scarce.
Departments
The Cowboy in Winter
Gerald Mack lived the life—and photographer Sam Abell went along for the ride
Invasion of the Cassowaries
Passions run high in an Australian town: Should the endangered birds be feared—or fed?
A Man of His Words
Of all the U.S. presidents, Lincoln had the best speechwriter—himself