Description
Book SynopsisThis lavishly illustrated book provides a unique insight into the evolution of mapmaking and the science behind it, from the stone age to the digital age. Britain’s leading cartographic author takes us on a historical journey through how the greatest maps were created. Exploring
key cartographers and mapmaking methods, as well as fascinating interludes on subjects such as the very first maps, deliberate mistakes, and superlative maps, this comprehensive guide explores how the
techniques and technology have developed throughout human history:
•
Evolving methods of surveying: from the Roman groma, through the naval instruments of the magnetic compass, astrolabes and sextants, to the 20th century revolution of aerial photography
•
Drawing tools and materials: from Babylonian maps carved in clay, to digital maps created via touchscreen
• The introduction of
various mapping conve
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
1. IN THE BEGINNING
The First Maps
2. SURVEYS AND SKETCHES
Gathering the Information
3. WHYS AND WHEREFORES
The Purpose of Maps
4. OLD TIMERS
The First Map-makers
5. IN THE ROUND
Globes and Spheres
6. SURFACE MATTERS
Materials for Drawing Maps
7. A MAP OF MANY PARTS
The Components of a Map
8. GOING NOWHERE
Places Which Weren’t There
9. THE DRAWING ROOM
Key Cartographers from the Golden Age to the Modern Age
10. MIGHTY MAPS
Mapping Superlatives
11. A MAP IN HAND
The Purposes to Which Maps Have Been Put
CONCLUSION
FURTHER RESOURCES
INDEX
CREDITS
ABOUT THE AUTHOR & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
