Historical Dictionary of Iceland

(Hardback, Third Edition)

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Iceland demonstrates most of the characteristics of a modern liberal democracy. It has maintained political stability through a democratic process which enjoys universal legitimacy. Rapid economic modernization has also secured its inhabitants one of the highest living standards in the world, and a comprehensive and highly developed health system has ensured them longevity and one of the lowest rates of infant mortality in the world. Icelanders face, however, formidable challenges in maintaining their status as an independent nation. First, the Icelandic economy is fairly fragile, as overexploitation threatens the fish stocks that remain among Icelands principal economic resources. Second, the country is rich in unused energy resources, because many of its rivers are still not harnessed, and geothermal power is abundant. But using these resources will necessarily damage the pristine nature of the country, forcing the politicians and the Icelandic public to choose between environmental protection and industrial expansion. Finally, it remains to be seen if a country with just over 329.740 inhabitants will be able to manage its foreign relations in a complex and constantly changing world. This third edition of Historical Dictionary of Iceland contains a chronology, an introduction, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 200 cross-referenced entries on important personalities, politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Iceland.

Reviews

This edition added Professor Jakobsson, who is a medieval historian. This edition is, therefore, broader in scope than its predecessors. Libraries that have found the previous editions useful should be prepared to discard them if they can purchase this one. [O]ur thanks should go to Rowman and Littlefield for keeping up the flow of specialised information sources like this. * s *

Author Bio

Sverrir Jakobsson is a Professor of Medieval History at the University of Iceland. Gudmundur Halfdanarson is the Jn Sigursson Professor of History in the Department of History at the University of Iceland. He is an expert in European political and cultural history, specializing in theories and practices of nationalism.