What makes Kenya truly unique is its amazing past. From the first footprints of human history to British and German rule, this country has journeyed through major change. Kenya gained independence in the 1950s and became one of Africa's most prosperous countries in the 1960s, but today it is plagued with food shortage and disease, and many challenges lie ahead. Features of the series include: main chapters that focus on geography, people and culture, history, government and economy, and nature; 'At a Glance' double spreads to present a maximum amount of information in a minimal amount of space, utilizing charts, tables, time lines, and other highly visual elements; and, full-page maps that highlight physical features, vegetation and ecosystems, history, population, and political organization. As a bonus, every photograph within each chapter is tied to a location on the main map for that chapter. Smaller maps zoom in on special topics, such as migration, rainfall, changing borders, resources, industry, and other important themes. This book includes special feature sidebars that introduce intriguing people, places, and events; a glossary to aid in comprehension of unfamiliar terms; and, an extensive bibliography that lists books, National Geographic articles, and Web sites.