Russia-Georgia conflict: Reports to Congress can provide background on issues
Some of the best sources of background information on complicated subjects can be found in reports to Congress. While some reports may be directed toward a certain conclusion, most are informational and helpful in understanding the basics and identifying sources. Take for example the Russia-Georgia conflict. News reports are all over the map on who is to blame, but a succinct report issued Aug. 13 for Congress provides historical context that shows the complexity of the dispute (check out a copy posted at the Federation of American Scientists Web site). So tap into government reports through Congressional Research Service and other agencies that gather and disseminate information, obstensibly for elected leaders to make better informed decisions.