Each entry is divided into an introductory narrative survey, a statistical survey and a directory portion. Covers such topics as literacy rate, greenhouse effect, acid rain, water pollution, hazardous wastes, gross national product. Great statistical source. 1500 cultural summaries arranged by geographical region of the world, includes history, settlements, kinship, economy, marriage and family, religion and sociopolitical organization. Maps, glossaries and index of alternative names for culture groups.
Special feature includes chronology of the past year s major events.
Part one covers international organizations. Part two profiles each country s history, area and population, climate, constitution and government, defense, international relations, economy, energy and natural resources, industry, foreign economic relations, communications, justice, religion, education and welfare, and diplomatic representatives. Country profiles cover political background, political parties, legislature, cabinet, news media, and intergovernmental representation. Second section covers intergovernmental organizations. Appendices include chronology of major international events from 1945 to the present.