You don't often witness the birth of a nation. When that nation is in Africa, and when it appears likely to be formed in a peaceful manner, it merits front-page play.
We don't give you the same old voter story, however. We feature Africa correspondent David Smith's insights into what the referendum on southern secession in Sudan means for all of Africa.
Smith's analysis is supported by fine narrative writing inside from Xan Rice, who is on the ground in Sudan for the week-long vote. We also pick up a piece from Thabo Mbeki, the former president of South Africa, who hails the vote as a triumph for the entire continent.
The news pages also look at the rightwing rhetoric in the US being blamed for the assassination attempt on an Arizona congresswoman. We consider how an assassination in Pakistan has killed off that country's liberal dream. And we take a closer look at Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán, who appears to be emerging as Europe's 'democratic dictator'.
Popular culture is prominent as Comment considers the relentless plod faced by Britain's royals in a piece inspired by a film on George VI and his fight to overcome stuttering. Our main Review feature assesses the life of American celebrity Anna Nicole Smith. And Culture laments the vanishing craft of darkroom photography.
Don't keep us in the dark. As always, your thoughts and comments are welcome.
Quote of the week: "An evil spirit has been sweeping over the country, and it is our duty to stand up against this wave." Israeli opposition leader Tzipi Livni commenting on a parliamentary commission of inquiry into human rights groups that some have called 'McCarthyite'.
Fact of the week: In the Sudan referendum, voters in the south will put a thumbprint next to either a picture of clasped hands – the symbol of unity – or an open hand, if the choice is separation.
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