Description: Perfect as the basis for reports, this on-going series describes major world nations and their unique positions in the world community. Each book covers the title nation's geography, climate, terrain, natural resources, urban environments, history, governmental structure, economy (including agriculture and industry), transportation systems, arts, life styles, and leisure activities. Each book ends with a chapter on the nation's potential and future.

The most heavily populated nation in the world, China's population is expected to reach 1.5 billion in 2010. It is also the third largest country in the world after Russia and Canada. China enjoys a varied landscape that includes the highest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas, and deserts, such as the Taklamakan, frozen tundra in the north, and tropical forests in the south. An ancient country, China has a recorded history that stretches back 4,000 years. Ruling dynasties developed in China itself, but the country has also been invaded by Mongols from the north. Europeans have been in contact with the Chinese and Mongols since the 13th century. Following a Japanese invasion in 1937 and subsequently World War II, in 1949 Chinese communists finally gained control and have ruled the country for the past 50 years. Still heavily agricultural, China has developed an active export market for its manufactures. Its culture manifests itself in calligraphy, silk fabrics and paintings, opera, and architecture. It has produced a cuisine that is admired throughout the world.

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