Robert Barlas

For centuries, the Bahamas was under colonial rule. As such, today the country still has a strong European influence on its traditions, culture, and celebrations. However, it also has a distinct island identity that citizens share every year with the thousands of tourists that flock to it. This book examines the distant past of the Bahamas and the nation's buildup to independence from Britain in 1973. It explores the country today, especially its foods, beliefs, economy, government, and unique festivities. Using compelling sidebars and photographs, this book ultimately gives readers a comprehensive view of the island nation in the twenty-first century.

Located in East Africa, the country of Uganda is rich in both history and culture. A former British colony, Uganda experienced several decades of turmoil after gaining its independence in 1962, enduring both military dictatorship and guerrilla insurgency. Today, Uganda has achieved a degree of political and economic stability, but poverty, disease, and climate change pose ongoing problems. Accompanied by full-color photographs and informative sidebars, this comprehensive text teaches readers about the challenges faced by modern Uganda, as well as the history, economy, traditions, and cultural contributions of the Ugandan people.

Our planet is large, vast, and filled with an amazing array of unique countries and cultures. With this book, students can explore one such place, the young nation of Latvia, which hugs the Baltic Sea. Vibrant photographs, detailed maps, and engaging text combine to give readers an inside look at this country, its history, its people, and all the opportunities that lie within it. Once a part of the USSR, Latvia has been through immense changes in recent years. Readers will be riveted by the exciting stories and images in this book.

This book explores the exciting culture and many festivals that are celebrated in Canada, through a fun narrative, photographs, crafts, and recipes.