Offering great authority, outstanding quality, and attention to detail, this new edition has been fully revised to bring all the maps and geographical information completely up to date. The introductory section covers major world geographical themes—from climate and environment to population and urbanization—giving a global snapshot of the contemporary world. A comprehensive guide to the world's states and territories including flags, capital cities, and key facts, make this the ideal reference atlas for home, school, or office. Authoritative up-to-date mapping reflects recent changes; a geographical reference section offers flags, statistics, and facts for the world's states and territories; statistics and world maps on major geographical themes include population, cities, climate, and the environment; and an extensive index has more than 20,000 place names.