Ronald Bruce St John - Historical Dictionary of Libya (African Historical Dictionaries, 33)

The Socialist Peoples Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, more commonly known as Libya, rests at the intersection of three worlds--Arab, African, and Mediterranean. Early African trade routes passing through Libya linked Central Africa with the North African Coast and the cultures of the Mediterranean sea. Libyas present-day strategic location, combined with its extensive oil reserves and revolutionary leadership, have kept this sparsely populated state at the forefront of nightly news for nearly three decades. Much is discussed yet little is understood, and Libya remains an enigma in world affairs. Its internal and external policies often provoke wide-ranging sentiment, from praise to anger to fear to outright scorn. The third edition of the Historical Dictionary of Libya provides a much needed update on the old traditions and new developments of modern Libya. The book covers the early periods of Libyan history, adding background on many of its current internal struggles and much of the impetus of its modern political positions. The United Kingdom of Libya was the first North African area to achieve statehood (in 1951) and emerge from under the auspices of the United Nations. In 1969, the Revolutionary Command Council seized power from the monarchy and redirected the policies of the former regime. This book provides a valuable frame of reference to investigate the policies of the two radically different governments of 20th-century, independent Libya. Other significant changes have occurred with this edition. New entries have been added, particularly concerning the social and economic system of Libya after 1991. Additionally, outside influences on Libyan history have been clarified. Crucial entries such as The United States, Qaddafi, Chemical Weapons, September Revolution, and Revolutionary Committees, have been completely rewritten to present the most accurate, up-to-date information available. The bibliography has been expanded considerably to incorporate new material published in recent years. Several appendixes have been added to the third edition of the Dictionary to provide easy access to background information and detailed, focused studies of Libya. Finally a series of maps, also newly added with this edition, provide visual reference to the territorial disputes in which Libya has been embroiled during this century. So much of Libya is shrouded in misinformation and mystery. This third edition of the Historical Dictionary of Libya goes farther than ever to provide a concise, handy source of accurate information on one of the modern worlds most enigmatic states. Reviews of the Previous Edition: A major contribution of this work is the comprehensive and very well organized bibliography...a useful work for both the specialist and the amateur. --MESA BULLETIN ...important...As a very basic introduction, outline, and ready reference tool for modern Libya, this edition is highly recommended. --CHOICE ...a remarkably accessible assembly of useful information...a good buy. --LIBYAN STUDIES