Strange Dark Matters in Nearby Dwarf Galaxies

I review some mysterious features of dwarf galaxies that seem central to a true understanding of these systems and their global role in galaxy evolution. Specifically, I discuss current problems associated with (a) the observed complex star-formation histories of dwarf satellites of the Milky Way, (b) the growing evidence that dwarfs can be destroyed tidally in the vicinity of the Galaxy and hence contribute to its halo population, (c) the enigmatic relationship of the gaseous and stellar components within dwarf systems, and (d) the implications of kinematic observations of dwarfs for the dark-matter problem. My intent is to be somewhat provocative and to suggest some strategies that may prove useful to help solve these problems.