Encyclopaedia of World Nations- Biographies, Culture, Religion, and Political Landscapes

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The Encyclopaedia of World Nations: Biographies, Culture, Religion, and Political Landscapes offers a comprehensive exploration of the histories, cultures, religions, notable personalities and political systems of nations. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the diverse aspects that define global society. This volume addresses the need for an accessible yet thorough resource that encapsulates the intricate tapestry of human civilisation. The purpose of this Encyclopaedia offers readers an in-depth appreciation of our interconnected world.

The methodology involved compiling and updating entries written over several years by the present author ensuring accuracy and relevance. Key findings include detailed insights into the unique characteristics of different nations.

The impact of this work is significant, as it serves as an essential resource for scholars, students, and practitioners seeking to deepen their knowledge of global cultures and political landscapes. Its contribution to research is evident in its detailed analysis and comprehensive coverage, while its practical contribution lies in its ability to inform and educate a wide audience, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of global diversity.

Professor (Dr) Patit Paban Mishra, a former Professor of History at Sambalpur University. India, and the Northern University of Malaysia, specialises in World History, with a particular focus on South Asian and Southeast Asian History. He earned his MA in History from Delhi University, and his MPhil and PhD from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Additionally, he was conferred the D.Litt degree by Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata. Professor Mishra has an illustrious teaching career spanning nearly 40 years, during which he supervised numerous MPhil, PhD, and D.Litt scholars in both India and abroad. He has served as President of the Indian History Congress (Section IV) and the Odisha History Congress in 2005 and 2011. respectively.

He is the author of more than eight books and over 30 research articles. A prolific contributor to encyclopaedias, he has written approximately 900 articles for over 150 encyclopaedias published by renowned publishers in the USA and the UK. His editorial contributions include serving as editor/co-editor of encyclopaedias such as Native Peoples of the World: An Encyclopaedia of Groups, Cultures and Contemporary Issues, Organized Crime: From Trafficking to Terrorism, and the Encyclopaedia of Modern Asia.

Professor Mishra has carned an outstanding scholarly reputation as an encyclopaedia editor and author. He has chaired or participated in 22 international conferences in different countries and over three dozen national conferences. His academic engagements include roles as Visiting Professor/Fellow, as well as authoring several books and monographs. Notably, his book on Thailand was published by Greenwood Publications, USA. Following his retirement, he served as a Professor at the Northern University of Malaysia for three years.

He has also been a Senior Academic Fellow of the Indian Council of Historical Research, New Delhi, and a Senior Academic Consultant at Odisha Open University, Sambalpur. Professor Mishra is the sole author of An Encyclopaedia in Spatio-Temporal Dimensions: Biography, Culture, and Religion (Cambridge Scholars Publishing Ltd, Newcastle, UK, 2024), a 589-page volume featuring 400 entries. Another book, Kalinga and Southeast Asia: A Saga of Shared Civilizations is forthcoming.

Professor Mishra is a life member of several professional associations, including the Indian History Congress, ASRC Hyderabad, the Association of Indian Archives, IAPPS, IHRC, the Odisha History Congress, IDSA, IPP (USA), and the Association of International Studies (AIS), Northern University of Malaysia.

In the vast tapestry of our world, the richness and diversity of human civilisation stand testament to our collective journey through time. The Encyclopaedia of World Nations: Biographies, Culture, Religion, and Political Landscapes endeavours to capture the essence of this journey, offering a comprehensive exploration of the myriad facets that define our global society. The entries have been written in different periods over the last few years. The present author decided that it would be better to compile all these articles into a single volume. This encyclopaedia is designed to serve as a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and marvels of our world. It delves into the histories, cultures, and political landscapes that have shaped nations, providing readers with a profound appreciation of the interconnectedness and diversity of human civilisation.

Our planet is home to nearly 200 countries, each with its unique culture, history, and societal structure. The current global population exceeds 7.9 billion, highlighting the sheer scale and complexity of our world. This encyclopaedia aims to provide an insightful and detailed look into the lives of people across these nations, examining the cultural, religious, and political elements that shape their identities. In an era where globalisation has made the world more interconnected than ever before, understanding these dynamics is crucial. This encyclopaedia serves as a vital tool for students, researchers, educators, general readers, and policymakers who seek to comprehend the complexities of global interactions. It not only educates but also inspires readers to appreciate the diverse influences that shape our world.

Each country represents a unique blend of traditions, beliefs, and governance. From the bustling metropolises of the United States, the UK, India, Dubai, Singapore and China to the serene landscapes of Mauritius, Maldives, Bhutan and Iceland, every nation has a story to tell. This encyclopaedia delves into these stories, offering readers a window into the daily lives, struggles, and triumphs of people from diverse backgrounds. By exploring these countries, the encyclopaedia covers significant geographical, economic, and social aspects, providing a holistic view of each nation. Detailed biographies of influential leaders and cultural icons further enrich the reader's understanding, shedding light on the individuals who have shaped their country's destiny. This comprehensive approach ensures that readers gain a nuanced perspective on the factors that define different nations.

Religion plays a pivotal role in shaping the moral and ethical frameworks of societies around the globe. The Encyclopaedia of World Nations examines the major religions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism, as well as numerous indigenous and lesser-known faiths. By exploring the beliefs, rituals, and histories of these religions, the encyclopaedia provides readers with a deeper understanding of how faith influences cultural practices and societal norms. In addition to the major world religions, the encyclopaedia also looks at the rise of secularism and the growing number of individuals who identify as non-religious or atheist. This exploration helps to paint a complete picture of the religious landscape of the modern world, offering insights into the evolving nature of belief systems and their impact on global cultures.

The political landscape of our world is as varied as its cultures and religions. From democratic nations to authoritarian regimes, the forms of governance and political ideologies are diverse and complex. This encyclopaedia examines the political structures of different countries, offering insights into their governance, political history, and current affairs. Through detailed analyses of political systems and the biographies of key political figures, readers gain a nuanced understanding of how power is wielded and maintained across the globe. The impact of political decisions on society, economy, and international relations is also explored, providing a comprehensive overview of global politics. This thorough examination allows readers to understand the intricate interplay between politics and other societal factors, fostering a deeper appreciation of the complexities of governance.