Research Guides: Government Information: Country Background Information

Country Background

CIA World Fact Book This link opens in a new window
Provides detailed profiles of all of the countries of the world. Offers information on each country's geography, people, government, economy, communications, military, and transnational issues, as well as maps and flag images. Covers 2000 - present in PDF; current interactive edition is continually updated.

U.S. State Department Bilateral Relations Fact Sheets
State Department-authored profiles of US diplomatic relations with other countries, including:

• Brief historical sketch of US-country diplomacy
• Country membership in trade and defense pacts, international organizations
• US aid to country
CIA World Leaders
This is the updated online directory of Chiefs of State and Cabinet Members of Foreign Governments.

Library of Congress Country Profiles
Country Profiles offer brief, summarized information on a country’s historical background, geography, society, economy, transportation and telecommunications, government and politics, and national security.
Library of Congress Country Studies
The Country Studies Series presents a description and analysis of the historical setting and the social, economic, political, and national security systems and institutions of countries throughout the world.