New emphasis on the impacts of globalization, events in the Middle East, and political and economic changes in East Asia - as well as new information and maps throughout - are among the features of this thoroughly revised edition of The World Since 1945. The text traces the major political, economic, and ideological patterns that have evolved in the global arena from the end of World War II to the present, providing the background needed for a solid understanding of contemporary international relations. Written to be student friendly, it has made its place as the text of choice in scores of introductory IR and world history courses.