This is the latest in our series of illustrated geo-political surveys. It shines a spotlight on Kazakhstan, the world's ninth-largest country, which stretches from the fringes of Europe to the borders of Mongolia and China. Written by a team of specialists and scholars, this book presents an authoritative analysis of Kazakhstan's history and culture, its geography and geology, its people and their patterns of life, its governmental structures and contemporary society. It also takes an in-depth look at the country's economy, and its significance as a global provider of oil and gas. With over 400 photographs and 16 maps, this new book has already become the standard work on Kazakhstan.