Antarctica is one of the smallest continents of the world. It is at the South Pole. It was the last continent to be found.
The land is covered with ice. It is surrounded by icebergs and floating ice. During winter, temperatures fall below 110 degrees below zero!
For many years, Antarctica was a mystery. Its ice and cold weather made it difficult to reach. There were few animals. It lacked resources like trees.
Gradually people started to explore the continent. In 1911, a group from Norway was the first to reach the South Pole. By 1940, scientists had built research stations on Antarctica.
Many nations claim parts of Antarctica. In 1961, the Antarctic Treaty was made. This treaty helps the nations work together.