The completely up-to-date edition of this invaluable classic reference allows the reader a global overview of the elements that define the opening of the twenty-first century. * The World at War * The Rise of Globalization * Control of the Seas * Control of Space * Superpowers * Population Growth * Urbanization * Traffic * Energy Use * Global Warming * Biodiversity * Stock Markets * Human Rights * Children's Rights * The Internet and Digital Media * Investment * Health and Disease Using a mainly visual analysis of data in full-color maps and graphics, Dan Smith gives shape and meaning to the statistics.