Contemporary World Atlas Author:Rand McNally Today's complex world challenges our understanding at many levels - from the evening news to a basic social studies class. In the home, especially, a reliable multi-purpose reference work is needed, one that meets the needs of the entire family. With its maps, text, and statistical charts, Rand McNally's Contemporary World Atlas provides the fra... more »mework necessary for knowledge at any age - from child to adult. Discover the sites of current events, trace international boundaries, and locate world and state capitals and points of interest. Ninety detailed, easy-to-read maps show every country and individual U.S. states. Here are hundreds of facts at your fingertips - an indispensable aid in interpreting world events. Geographical data and political information describe languages and forms of government for each country; list populations for world nations and cities; give general information about the world and the United States; and more. A special table of more than 12,000 entries lists official census populations for United States cities, towns, and states. The seventy-five page Index allows for easy location of places on maps and can also be used as a quick-reference spelling guide for place-names. Plus, global photographs text, and special maps give a continent-by-continent overview of today's world. Maps focus on interesting and relevant topics, detailing each country's populations, economy, energy potential, and more. This introductory section provides an invaluable aid for research and enhances reading or school projects.« less