Nationalism is a mighty force in the 21st century. Its many limbs have not been so politically significant since prior to World War I. While current trends tilt toward regional economic groupings, national identity—and demands for greater political and economic autonomy—has created a national, regional, and international groundswell since the end of the Cold War. An expanded sequel to Minahan's award-winning guide to some 200 groups, Nations Without States: A Historical Dictionary of Contemporary National Movements (1996), this book provides an easy-to-use, accurate, and up-to-date guide to over 300 developed or emerging national groups worldwide. Providing fuller historical profiles of each group, this is the definitive reference on the nationalism and national groups that helped shape 20th century politics—and will likely shape the politics of tomorrow.

Included are numerous new national groups that have emerged since the publication of Minahan's 1996 book. Many of these remain unknown outside of their own regions. Others make headlines. The evolution of each group is traced from its earliest history to the present day, making the book an indispensable reference for those wishing to understand the world's growing multitude of national groups.