Hotspots

Examines political, economic, and social changes in the Soviet Union brought about by Gorbachev's policies of glasnost and perestroika.

Outlines the background of the coca trade in Colombia and describes the current violent struggle between the powerful drug dealers and the government. Also discusses what international response might be appropriate to this situation.

Text and photographs survey the history of the countries of western Europe and their move toward union which culminated in the Maastricht Treaty in 1992.

Includes a brief history of Germany and a look at the political, social, and economic effects of the country's reunification in 1990.

This book takes the reader on a journey of the history of China, the world's most populous country. The time period since the Chinese Revolution is covered, including such figures as Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping, Zhao Ziyang and Hu Yaobang. Special emphasis is placed on China's recent upheavals, the crushing of the pro-democracy movement, and possible solutions to China's problems.

Examines recent challenges to apartheid such as the freeing of Nelson Mandela and the beginning of integration of public services; and speculates on the possibility and effects of black majority rule in South Africa.

Traces the history of the conflict in Ireland, from raids during Queen Elizabeth's reign to the present day, explains how the country was divided in 1921, and discusses the formation of political parties in Eire and Northern Ireland.

Factfiles provide information on the history and recent upheavals in Europe and their possible solutions.