South Asia has developed from a group of newly independent post-Colonial states of at most secondary importance to the wider world to its current position as a region of central strategic importance to both global economic development and world peace and stability.This Atlas highlights the global significance of South Asia in relation to economic, geopolitical and strategic interests. It provides a coherent descriptive and analytical account of the key elements of the complex societies that make up the region and its component countries. Illustrated with 80 maps and offering concise entries on key issues, the book is structured thematically in these sections: South Asia in Global Context The Geographical Environment The Historical Evolution of Modern South Asia Key Issues in Contemporary South Asia The Economy Defence and Security South Asia, its Neighbours and the World.Designed for use in teaching undergraduate and graduate classes and seminars in geography, history, economics, anthropology, international relations, political science and the environment as well as regional courses on South Asia, this book is also a comprehensive reference source for libraries and decision makers focusing on South Asia.