National Geographic Concise Atlas of the Worldwas recognized by the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping in the annual map design competition as the best in the atlas/book category. Now, the Second Edition--with more than 3,000 updates, 32 new pages of expanded content, and 500 maps, charts, graphs, flags, and illustrations--is the ultimate geographic reference for every home, office and classroom. The atlas opens with beautifully rendered, up-to-date, thoroughly indexed, political and physical maps of the world. Satellite mosaics depict the Earth from hundreds of miles above. World thematic maps follow, presenting plate tectonics, climate and weather, oceans, population, religion, energy, and the economy. Health and education, environmental stress, and conflict and terror are also covered, providing a review of the increasingly complex issues we face today. Informative, intriguing, and accessible,National Geographic Concise Atlas of the Worldvisually portrays important aspects of the world in a way only maps can. Full-color physical and land cover maps enhance and enrich readers' understanding of the Earth's natural features. New continental maps cover water availability and natural events such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsunamis. Country profiles provide national flags and valuable facts for all 193 independent nations of the world.