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Sun, Dec 07 - Tue, Dec 09
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The Mapping SpecialistVol IX, No. 1 - Summer 2001 Contents | In Focus | Mapmaking | Profile | Historical Atlases Historical AtlasesThe research process is only successful when it leads to verifiable information. In order to achieve this goal, we need to satisfy our clients and ourselves that the data are accurate. Over the years, there have been a few "work-horse" sources used, such as Shepherd's Historical Atlas, 9th ed for world subjects. For United States topics, Paullin & Wright's Atlas of Historical Geography of the U.S. (1932) and The American Heritage Pictorial Atlas of United States History (1966) fulfilled our needs. Recently a number of new atlases have been published which not only supplement traditional topics, but also put a fresh perspective on history and geography. These works are notable in many ways. Statistical material can now be presented because of the advent of digital desktop mapping. Using analog methods, these presentations would have been prohibitive to produce cost-wise. The integration of maps, text, and illustrations make the information come alive. But what sets these new books apart from older ones is the inclusion of extensive bibliographies. Now when sources disagree one can track down primary documents for verification. Here are some of the new works:
With the evolution of the Internet, many original maps and documents can be viewed on the desktop. There are a number of good web sites. The best place to start is with either www.refdesk.com or the Perry-Castañeda Library web site at the University of Texas - www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/. Unlike the newer printed atlases, documentation of information on the web can be suspect, so use with caution. |
