Presents controversial threats to and responses by 14 endangered cultures in Africa and the Middle East and encourages critical thinking. Africa and the Middle East are undergoing dramatic transformations, environmentally, demographically, economically, politically, and otherwise. Endangered Peoples of Africa and the Middle East: Struggles to Survive and Thrive turns the spotlight on 14 endangered cultures as examples of how diverse peoples cope with these transformations in the 21st century. Students and general readers will learn about little-known groups, such as the Ogoni of Nigeria who cope with environmental degradation resulting from multinational exploitation of oil resources and government collusion, and more well-known groups, such as the Afghans who are displaced because of civil war and who live under the repressive Taliban regime. The issues, viewpoints, and solutions presented by chapter authors are often controversial, and the format allows students and interested readers to use critical-thinking skills as they gain knowledge of other cultures. Endangered Peoples of Africa and the Middle East is the only reference for the high school and public library that gives a unique perspective on the threats to and responses of these groups. Each chapter gives an overview of the group to provide a context for discussing the challenges they face. A helpful Resource Guide lists further reading, films and videos, Web Sites, and organizations. Maps and photos complment the text.