[thejeff]

Nah. Start with the tutorial. Then play around. Dig into the manual when you get confused. I wouldn't start getting into the detailed mechanics until you've had a chance to see them in action for a bit.

Look at the nations section when you start and when you run
into other nations.
Go through the strategy section when you get the chance.

"Read the manual before playing" sounds to much like homework.

I do second the start with small maps with only a few other nations. Probably a few less than recommended for the map to have a little breathing room before meeting other nations.