Here is a reference that no library or student should be without. This volume is the most comprehensive resource available for information on every country in the world, political leaders, systems of government, political theories, international organizations, and much more.In three volumes and more than 700 entries, you'll find articles on Nelson Mandela, Communism, the concept of direct democracy, the United Nations, NAFTA, and other influences on world politics such as human rights issues. Each country's article includes key information, such as the name of the country in both English and the native language and the capital city, plus the political history of the country; the current government institutions; the country's role in world and regional politics; its wars, alliances, and human rights record; and other notable events. In short, each article is a snapshot of the country's history and government framework.The Companion is written and designed to make finding just the information you need as easy as possible. It is written in natural and easy-to-understand language and its extensive cross-references, sources for further reading, and index are useful guides for study and research. Even more information is available in appendices that include global maps, further reading (including addresses for international news magazines and on-line and CD-ROM sources), and a table of each country's population and area statistics. And there's a "How to Use This Book" section that sets out step-by-step instructions for finding specific words, concepts, countries, and world leaders, or for using the Companion as a topical reference for a particular aspect of world politics (such as the "green revolution" or war crimes directed against political prisoners).Governments of the World: A Student Companion is the perfect reference for middle and high school students, but teachers, librarians, and parents will also find it an indispensable source of information about current world affairs. It is a superb addition to the Oxford family of fine references.