United Nations

Children's Literature

In 1974 Timor, a small island in Indonesia owned by two different countries, faced a crisis. Although the people of East Timor wanted to be independent, the Indonesian government had declared that East Timor belonged to Indonesia. Several hundred thousand people died in the war and famine that ensued. In 1982, the United Nations stepped in to help resolve the conflict. The UN oversaw elections and sent peacekeepers and aid to refugees in Timor, while the East Timorese people gradually took over the job of running the country themselves. This is the type of activity in which the United Nations is involved. This book examines the events that led to the development of the United Nations, the people that shaped the UN and the different parts, or organs, of the UN and their respective duties. These duties are explained through real-life examples, such as the conflict in Timor, the creation of Israel and the resolution of the Korean War. Insets and charts explain topics such as the set-up of the United Nations and the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize. Full color maps and photos accompany the text. Also included is a time line, a brief glossary, a bibliography and an index. This book is part of the "International Organizations" series by World Almanac Library. 2004, World Almanac Library, Ages 10 up.
—Rebecca Watson