The 2006 CIA World Factbook.

A whole world fits between these covers, country by country, as it stood in the year 2006.

What it's about

The CIA World Factbook is a standing reference that surveys the countries and territories of the globe, each rendered in a consistent template covering geography, population, government, economy, infrastructure and defense. This edition records the state of affairs in 2006, presenting the essential data for every recognized nation in a form built for quick lookup. It is a working tool, meant to answer questions rather than tell a continuous story.

Themes

Across its entries the book charts a planet in constant motion, its figures for population, trade and governance shifting from one edition to the next. It reflects a confidence in the power of organized data to make sense of the world's diversity. Placed side by side, the profiles quietly dramatize the differences and connections among nations, all filtered through the same even, factual voice.

Why it still matters

Because it captures one specific year, this edition now functions as a historical benchmark, useful for tracing how the world has changed since. Writers, researchers and students turn to such fixed snapshots when they need reliable period detail. As a first port of call for the basic facts of any country, it remains dependable and easy to use.

Who it's for

Anyone who loves reference works, from students and journalists to travelers and trivia enthusiasts, will get value from it. If facts arranged with clarity and authority appeal to you, this edition earns its place on the shelf.