This map aims to combine readability and interest. Both text and maps reflect the latest political realities, including entries on the new nations of Slovakia, Eritrea, and the states of the former USSR and Yugoslavia. Each of the 15,000 entries incorporates detailed statistics and descriptions of population, topography, history, industry, and special features of interest. Each country's description includes a locator map, and federal maps are included for major nations. There are also 16 pages of world maps in colour, as well as an appendix containing world geographical and statistical information.