Although it was adversely affected by both world wars and the cold war, which divided the nation into a democratic and communist state, Germany has persevered to become Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation. West Germany was one of the founding members of the European Economic Community, which became the European Union in 1992, and with the integration of East Germany after the end of the cold war in 1990, Germany has today become the world's largest exporter of goods. ""Germany, Second Edition"" offers a three-dimensional overview of this fascinating nation. Featuring an appealing full-color format and a number of useful study features, this updated book is a compelling guide to the people, culture, history, geography, environment, economy, and government of Germany.