Brief entries for over 20,000 people, places, institutions and events make this book a must for checking spelling, pronunciation or essential facts. International in scope, the dictionary places special emphasis on Australia and contemporary life. WHO? Concise biographical entries on notable scientists, artists, writers, actors, musicians, politicians, criminals, saints, sporting figures as well as coverage of the world's major political and cultural organisations and movements. WHERE? Worldwide geographical information covering countries, territories, cities, towns, mountains, rivers, lakes, waterfalls. WHEN? Comprehensive coverage of the events that have shaped our history.