Description:
This encyclopedia is an essential guide to the different ethno-linguistic groups in Africa and today's complicated Middle East region.
Ethnic Groups of Africa and the Middle East contains encyclopedic entries arranged alphabetically within ethno-linguistic classifications. Each entry has four main sections: an introduction identifying the language group, where they are found, and their numbers; a brief discussion of their origins and early history; a section on cultural life that includes religion, literature, social organization, and art; and a final section on political organization and recent history. The contents are appropriate for high school and undergraduate students as well as for experts who need a refresher on groups in Africa and the Middle East. While certain ethnic groups have been combined into a single entry, some--such as the Tuareg, who are a Berber people--are described within their own entries because of their importance in history or cultural domination.Review Quotes: "This unique guide presents basic historical, demographic, and political background information on more than 100 ethnic groups found in Africa and the Middle East. . . . This specialized reference presents a great deal of obscure material assembled into one accessible resource. Recommended for academic and large public library collections that support sociology, linguistics, or ethnic-studies programs." --Booklist