Description
Book SynopsisThis unique book examines the history, culture, and inner workings of the seven smallest independent countries in Europe. These are among the oldest states on the continent and, despite their diversity, they have much in common. Most have relatively high per capita incomes and life expectancies, and relatively low unemployment. This narrative presents the unique issues that confront small countries, including maintaining their independence, economic viability, preserving their native languages, and sustaining their governments. The second part of the book describes each microstate in turn, showing how each one has met these challenges and adapted over time. These concise and engaging chapters contain cultural information on subjects including the arts, gastronomy, and popular tourist sites.
Table of ContentsCONTENTS: A Short Introduction to Some Small Places; A Small World: The Geography of the Microstates; A Short Tether: How Independent Are the Microstates?; Microeconomics: The Economies of the Microstates; Lilliputians: The People of the Microstates; Micromanagement: Government in the Microstates; A Worm's-Eye History of Europe; Big Fish in Little Ponds: Monarchy and Religion in the Microstates; Small Talk: Language and Education in the Microstates; Andorra: The Pyrenean Microstate; Liechtenstein: The Business Microstate; Luxembourg: The Giant Microstate; Malta: Microstate in the Middle; Monaco: The Aristocrat of Microstates; San Marino: The Freedom Microstate; Vatican City: The Papal Microstate; Touring the Microstates; Index.
