CIA World Factbook
Updated every year, this site is one of the most authoritative sites on countries of the world. It provides general information found in an almanac or encyclopedia: population, economy, natural resources, government, and communications and two additional categories: military and transnational issues. It also includes maps, flags, glossary, recent name changes, as well as late breaking information, such as recent changes in Kosovo.

Eyewitness
Learn history by reading first person narratives. There are a few events from before the 1700s, such as the destruction of Pompeii in 79 AD, but most take place between 1750 and 1945. Illustrations, maps, photos, and further links enhance the content. Be sure to visit sounds of the past in the Voices of the 20th century and try out the Snapshots where you can roll over a section of a photograph to learn more details about the people and events in the photos.