The 20th century's most protracted conflict, the Cold War, also provided the longest and most stable peace in the history of the modern world--a fragile peace that came at the price of national freedom for many people. With the demise of the Cold War, new nearly-unknown countries, long ignored or suppressed, came to the attention of the world, as ethnic and national conflicts, rooted in the multi-ethnic populations of the newly independent states, emerged. From Bosnia-Herzegovina and Macedonia to Eritrea and Uzbekistan, Miniature Empires provides an essential guide to the states recognized since 1989 and the "nations" that dwell within their borders. Miniature Empires is the first reference book to address the post-Cold War nationalist resurgence by focusing on the nations within the new nation-states--both the core nationalities and the national minorities. Each article highlights the historical, political, social, and economic evolution of the new nations. Outstanding Academic Book

A devastating examination of how collapsing insect populations worldwide threaten everything from wild birds to the food on our plate. From ants scurrying under leaf litter to bees able to fly higher than Mount Kilimanjaro, insects are everywhere. Three out of every four of our planet’s known animal species are insects. In The Insect Crisis, acclaimed journalist Oliver Milman dives into the torrent of recent evidence that suggests this kaleidoscopic group of creatures is suffering the greatest existential crisis in its remarkable 400-million-year history. What is causing the collapse of the insect world? Why does this alarming decline pose such a threat to us? And what can be done to stem the loss of the miniature empires that hold aloft life as we know it? With urgency and great clarity, Milman explores this hidden emergency, arguing that its consequences could even rival climate change. He joins the scientists tracking the decline of insect populations across the globe, including the soaring mountains of Mexico that host an epic, yet dwindling, migration of monarch butterflies; the verdant countryside of England that has been emptied of insect life; the gargantuan fields of U.S. agriculture that have proved a killing ground for bees; and an offbeat experiment in Denmark that shows there aren’t that many bugs splattering into your car windshield these days. These losses not only further tear at the tapestry of life on our degraded planet; they imperil everything we hold dear, from the food on our supermarket shelves to the medicines in our cabinets to the riot of nature that thrills and enlivens us. Even insects we may dread, including the hated cockroach, or the stinging wasp, play crucial ecological roles, and their decline would profoundly shape our own story. By connecting butterfly and bee, moth and beetle from across the globe, the full scope of loss renders a portrait of a crisis that threatens to upend the workings of our collective history. Part warning, part celebration of the incredible variety of insects, The Insect Crisis is a wake-up call for us all.

Far from the battlefields of Europe and North Africa, Allied forces fought a very different war against another foe, from the jungles of Burma to the islands of the Pacific and the shores of Australia. This new Theatre Book for Bolt Action allows players to command the spearhead of the lightning Japanese conquests in the East or to fight tooth and nail as Chindits, US Marines and other Allied troops to halt the advance and drive them back. Scenarios, special rules and new units give players everything they need to recreate the ferocious battles and campaigns of the Far East, from Guadalcanal to Okinawa, Singapore, the Philippines, Iwo Jima and beyond.

Discover the captivating world of the Ottoman Empire with "Ottoman Empire: The Sultan's Domain" - a remarkable book bundle that takes you on a journey through the rise and fall of one of history's most influential empires. Dive into the rich tapestry of Ottoman history, exploring its politics, art, architecture, cultural brilliance, and its encounters with the wider world through trade and diplomacy. Book 1 - "The Rise And Fall Of The Ottoman Empire: A Comprehensive History" - delves into the origins and expansion of the empire, tracing its rise to power and exploring the key events that shaped its destiny. Uncover the strategies, military campaigns, and political maneuvers that propelled the Ottomans to become a formidable force in the region and learn about the factors that led to its eventual decline. Book 2 - "The Ottoman Empire: Power, Politics, And Imperial Legacy" - offers a nuanced examination of the empire's political landscape. Delve into the inner workings of the Ottoman court, the power struggles among the ruling elite, and the complex dynamics that governed its vast territories. Gain a deeper understanding of the empire's governance, institutions, and the lasting impact it left on the regions it once ruled. Book 3 - "Splendors Of The Ottoman Empire: Art, Architecture, And Cultural Brilliance" - takes you on a visually stunning journey through the artistic and architectural marvels of the empire. Marvel at the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, explore the intricate designs of Ottoman carpets and ceramics, and discover the beauty of Ottoman calligraphy and miniature painting. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate admirers to this day. Book 4 - "Ottoman Encounters: Exploring Trade, Diplomacy, And Cross-Cultural Exchanges" - sheds light on the empire's interactions with the wider world. Uncover the vibrant trade networks that connected the Ottoman Empire to distant lands, learn about its diplomatic engagements with European powers, and explore the fascinating cross-cultural exchanges that took place along the empire's borders. Gain insights into the economic, political, and social dimensions of Ottoman engagement with other civilizations. This book bundle offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the Ottoman Empire, combining meticulous research with vivid storytelling to transport you to a world of grandeur, intrigue, and cultural splendor. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of geopolitics, or simply curious about this extraordinary empire, "Ottoman Empire: The Sultan's Domain" is a must-have collection that will enrich your understanding of one of history's most influential periods. Immerse yourself in the epic tale of the Ottomans, from their humble beginnings to their far-reaching impact on the world stage. Delve into the triumphs and tribulations, the art and architecture, the politics and diplomacy that shaped the empire's destiny. Order your copy of "Ottoman Empire: The Sultan's Domain" today and embark on a captivating journey through history's illustrious corridors.

A thorough in-depth analysis of the current and potential conflicts in the Caucasus, including the geographical, historical and ethno- linguistic framework of the Caucasus, the individual conflicts and the place of the Caucasus in world affairs.

Commander Jules Sinclair has a bold idea: equip a small warship with two jump drives. One is so the ship can travel in hyperspace, while the other powers a single pulse blaster. The power behind the weapon will allow that small ship to destroy larger ships with one shot. Sinclair believes his design will help the Independent Worlds Alliance stand up better to the aggressive Cassini Empire. Construction and testing of Ship Killer goes well. Then the Empire destroys a rebel base. Its leaders may have designs on conquering more Alliance worlds. The Alliance’s political and military leaders can’t decide whether or not to construct more of Sinclair’s design. He and his small crew are given orders to go rogue and stop any threat to the Alliance. In this slow-burn science-fiction drama, can one ship bring down an empire? Or will that one ship reveal that empire’s hidden weaknesses?

“A fascinating romp through the feminine side of the infamous Khan clan” (Booklist) by the author featured in Echoes of the Empire: Beyond Genghis Khan “Enticing . . . hard to put down.”—Associated Press The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.