Introduction -- The land. Topography, climate, natural resources and environmental concerns, flora and fauna, cities -- History and government. Early civilizations, the Muslim conquest, the founding of Kuwait, development of trade, the British protectorate, the discovery of oil, independence and conflict, the 1991 Persian Gulf war, post-war events, the 2003 Persian Gulf war, new voters and a new emir, government -- The people. Social structure, family life and women, health care, education, language -- Cultural life, religion, holidays, social networks, art and architecture, music and dance, literature and film, sports and recreation, food -- The economy. The oil industry, manufacturing, imports and exports, services and tourism, agriculture and fishing, transportation and communications, the future -- For more information. Timeline, fast facts, currency, flag, national anthem, famous people, sights to see, glossary, selected bibliography, further reading and websites, index.