Introduction -- The land. Topography. The Nile River and its influence. Rainfall and climate. Flora and fauna. Natural resources and environmental issues. Khartoum. Secondary cities -- History and government. Early history. The Nubian kingdoms. Arab influences. The Sultanate of Sennar. The Turikya. The Mahdi. The Anglo-Egyptian condominium. European influence in the south. Road to independence. Independence and its aftermath. the Nimeiri era and al-Mahdi. New regimes. Bashir and civil war. Darfur and peace. Government -- The people. Ethnic groups. Health. Education. Language. Clothing. Family life and women. Cultural life. Religion. literature. Art. Music and dance. Sports, recreation, and holidays. Food -- The economy. Agriculture. Forestry and fishing. Industry and trade. Energy -- Services, transportation, and communication. The future -- For more information -- Timeline -- Fast facts -- Currency -- Flag -- National anthem -- Famous people -- Sights to see -- Glossary -- Selected bibliography -- Further reading and websites -- Index.