Country Studies
Formerly part of the Army Area Handbook Program, "The Country Studies Series presents a description and analysis of the historical setting and the social, economic, political, and national security systems and institutions of countries throughout the world." The Studies were published between 1988 and 1998, but more recent profiles are available for selected countries and are made available as they are completed. These are excellent background resources hosted by the Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress.
Link to resource:
Country Studies