This collection contains the Marguerite Langdale Pizer Series entitled Background Papers. The purpose of these papers was to provide educators in the secondary school system with background information on current international events of major importance. It was designed as an instructional resource that would provide students with in-depth knowledge of significant international events and to more generally improve their appreciation and understanding of world politics. This resource was produced because of the endowment of the Marguerite Langdale Pizer Chair of International Relations at Valdosta State College. Funding was provided by the School of Arts and Sciences, and the papers were produced by the Department of Political Science. Valdosta State houses Background Papers published from 1986-1992.