For thirty years Sudan has been a country in crisis, wracked by near-constant warfare between the north and the south. But on July 9, 2011, South Sudan became an independent nation. As Sudan once again finds itself the focus of international attention, former special envoy to Sudan and director of USAID Andrew Natsios provides a timely introduction to the country at this pivotal moment in its history. Focusing on the events of the last 25 years, Natsios sheds light on the origins of the conflict between northern and southern Sudan and the complicated politics of this volatile nation. He gives readers a first-hand view of Sudan's past as well as an honest appraisal of its future. In the wake of South Sudan's independence, Natsios explores the tensions that remain on both sides. Issues of citizenship, security, oil management, and wealth-sharing all remain unresolved. Human rights issues, particularly surrounding the ongoing violence in Darfur, likewise still clamor for solutions. Informative and accessible, this book introduces readers to the most central issues facing Sudan as it stands on the brink of historic change. -- from the publisher.

Includes maps of: Sudan, Circa 1959; South Sudan; North Sudan and Arab Triangle; [Darfur].

The place and significance of Sudan -- The birth of modern Sudan -- The rule of the Anglo-Egyptian condominium -- Fourth period of modern Sudan (1956-2005) -- Fourth period continued: the second civil war and the Turabist state -- The Bashir-Turabi coup of 1989, the rise and fall of Hassan al-Turabi, and U.S. policy towards Sudan -- The three rebellions of Darfur -- The third Darfur rebellion continued -- The Comprehensive Peace Agreement -- The Darfur peace process -- The future of the north and South Sudan.