From the dawn of Western civilization to the present day, events in Iraq have been at the center of world attention. Iraq lies in the heart of the Middle East and is central to this important region in countless ways. The domestication of plants and animals first began here. The world's first urban settlements and civilization were established along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in what was then known as Mesopotamia. Modern Iraq remains and important Arab heartland, but it is also a troubled land. Religious and ethnic strife threaten the country's stability. Today, a fragile democracy is beginning to take root in Iraq. Take students beyond the headlines with this brand-new, in-depth profile of this country in transition. Combining timely, clearly presented information with an easy-on-the-eye, full-color design, Iraq is an excellent resource for current events classes and social studies curriculums.