Countries of the World  

Overviews of countries covering the contemporary social, economic, religious and political issues that shape the country. Also contains vital statistics such as GDP, life expectancy, income distribution, and internet use.

From the U.S. Department of State, this site provides information on 198 countries, including both brief facts and longer entries about the people, history, government, political conditions, economy, foreign relations, and travel and business.

Facts and figures about the countries of the world from the CIA.

Area handbooks for more than 100 countries prepared by the Library of Congress. Includes a description and analysis of the historical setting and the social, economic, political, and national security systems and institutions of the country.

This site, from the World Bank is "designed to help businesspeople worldwide conduct business in a wide variety of countries." Country reports cover starting a business, dealing with licenses, registering property and enforcing contracts. The site is viewable in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic and Chinese. Reports are freely downloadable.

Country Reports, Country Profiles and Market Indicators and Forecasts.

Published annually since 1864. Provides reliable information on every country in the world including coverage of history, politics, economics, trade and infrastructure.