The former Soviet republics of Central Asia comprise a sprawling, politically pivotal, and richly cultured area of the world. yet they remain poorly represented in mainstream media. Since their political inception, they have experienced tremendous socio-political change. Despite the growth of oil wealth, the arrival of Western tourists and businessmen, and the competition for influence by the U.S., China, and Russia, the spirit of Central Asia has remained untouched at its core.


In this comprehensive survey, renowned political writer Dilip Hiro offers a lucid analytical narrative that places the present-day politics, economics, and Peoples of Central Asia and neighboring Turkey and Iran in an international context. Given its strategic location, its predominantly Muslim population, and its valuable resources, it is not surprising that this vast expanse is emerging as one of the most potentially influential--and coveted--areas of the globe.



Dilip Hiro is the author of more than thirty books. He contributes regularly to The New York Times, The Guardian, The Washington Post, and The Observer, and he is a commentator for CNN and the BBC. He lives in London.