Royal Families Worldwide

This compendium gathers information on more than 70 of the world's royal families. Each entry includes the name of the reigning monarch or head of family, a complete family listing, a brief dynastic history, their constitutional status and source of income, and a black-and-white photograph. Profiles include royalty from Afghanistan, Brazil, Cambodia, France and Russia. A foreword by a senior member of the royal family of Egypt further illuminates the role of contemporary sovereigns and sovereigns-in-waiting, and an introductory essay on the relationship of royal families to politics highlights the importance of contemporary monarchies in helping to preserve democracy and cultural heritage.