Turkey's natural geography has made it one of the world's crossroads, paving the way for a long history of fevered conquerors and grand empires. Turkey: A Primary Source Cultural Guide tells the story of Turkey from its first civilizations to the Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Turks who comprise its history. Various periods such as the rise of the Ottomans, the influence of the Byzantine Empire, and the 20th century reforms of Kemal Atatürk are each discussed in detail. Modern-day Turkey and its ongoing struggle to achieve political stability, equal human rights, and entrance into the European Union are also touched upon.