Richly illustrated with the images from observatories on the ground & in space & computer simulations this book shows how black holes were discovered & discusses our current understanding of their role in cosmic evolution. This second edition covers new discoveries made in the past decade including definitive proof of a black hole at the center of the Milky Way evidence that the expansion of the Universe is accelerating & the new appreciation of the connection between black holes & galaxy formation. There are entirely new chapters on gamma-ray bursts & cosmic feedback. Begelman & Rees blend theoretical arguments with observational results to demonstrate how both approaches contributed to this subject. Clear illustrations & photographs reveal the strange & amazing workings of our universe. The engaging style makes this book suitable for introductory undergraduate courses amateur astronomers & all readers interested in astronomy & physics.