This is a timely and unique overview of the 16 diverse federal states that make up the reunified Germany. The essential data for each state is provided in this easy-to-use reference. The demographics, geography, history, recent politics, economy, architecture, and noteworthy sites, people and culture, memorial sites, and traditional cuisine are surveyed in turn. This is an invaluable resource for students studying German and Germany, travelers, and teachers.

A clear introduction explains the new Germany in historical and regional context. It has been claimed that Germany is a post-national society, but regions are still a primary basis of identity for many Germans and one of the main references points in daily life and politics. Part of Germany’s reconstruction came through re-creation and identification with historically remolded regions. This work offers a needed summary of the results thus far.

Enhancing the text are recipes, a glossary, a chronology, maps, and photographs.