Central Europe's ancient civilizations have long been dominated by empires: The Roman Empire, the Habsburg Empire, based in Austria, and more recently, the Soviet Communists.

The "southern cone" of South America has a vibrant yet checkered history. Argentina in 1920 was a productive and wealthy nation, yet by the 1980s was reduced to virtual third world status.

Since Marco Polo, the fabled markets of China have drawn the west like a magnet. This ancient culture has been colonized by foreign powers, buffeted by war and revolution…

Colombia in the 1980s became known for its role in the illegal drug trade, and for political instability and violence caused by this problem.

Thailand, Laos, and Burma have been known as the "Golden Triangle," because of their historically prominent role in the drug trade.

The lands surrounding the Mediterranean Sea contain some of the oldest cultures on Earth. Italy and the other countries of Europe and North Africa have played a central role in various expanding empires, and also in shrinking fortunes.

With a culture dating back to at least 700 B.C., West Africa has a long and rich history. British influence after the 16th century, and especially in the 18th century, changed the region's course.