In 1947, Pakistan was established to provide an independent state for the Indian Muslim population when India attained independence from the British Empire. This fourth edition, following the general pattern of other titles in this series, outlines Pakistan's history and establishes its formative periods through a chronology section and an introductory essay. The dictionary section expands on earlier editions—the last was reviewed in 2000—all authored by Burki, a renowned Pakistani scholar and economist who has been involved in national affairs since 1960, lending an intimate, firsthand perspective on the forces that have forged the modern nation over the past 50 years. The work's 700 cross-referenced entries highlight Pakistan's politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture; more than 250 pages and perhaps 200 new entries were added. An appendix covering important personalities and an extensive bibliography are also included, along with a list of acronyms and abbreviations. This work is an excellent reference resource for general readers, students, and scholars who want to learn more about the broad history of Pakistan from 712 AD, when the region was incorporated into the Umayyad Caliphate, to the present day. Summing Up: Recommended. All academic audiences; general readers.