National Atlas of Canada
L'atlas national du Canada
Canada · · 1974
Related Reviews & Articles
The Evolution of the Atlas of Canada, 1906–2006
Claire Gosson · 2006
This article reviews the century-long evolution of the Atlas of Canada from its first edition in 1906 to the online sixth edition launched in 1999 and its subsequent development up to 2006. Drawing on archival maps and historical documents, the author traces how each edition responded to changing national needs and technological capabilities. The early editions (1906, 1915) were small-scale paper atlases focused on basic physical and human geography, while the third edition (1957/58) incorporated more comprehensive land-use and economic data. The fourth edition (1974) changed its name to the National Atlas of Canada and adopted a continuing program; the fifth edition (1978–1995) pioneered digital cartography and a standardized database at 1:2,000,000 compilation scale. The sixth edition, launched online in 1999, transformed the atlas into an interactive, Web-based geographic information system, emphasizing accessibility and partnership. The article argues that the atlas has always served twin purposes: as a utilitarian planning tool and as a means of fostering national identity and international understanding. Its evolution reflects broader shifts in cartography, from static printed maps to dynamic geospatial data services. The author concludes that the Atlas of Canada remains a leading national online atlas, and its future will be shaped by continued advances in information technology.
Introduction to Foreign Atlases: The Atlas of Canada
Unknown · 1984
The fourth revised edition of The National Atlas of Canada, published by the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources, includes satellite images and 254 pages of maps at various scales, comprehensively covering physical conditions and socioeconomic aspects. Physical maps cover geology and climate with practical indicators, while human maps include population, economy, and historical evolution. Rich in content and well-produced, it also includes provincial atlases to support evaluation and rational development of natural resources.
The first national atlas of Canada
Michael Wood · 1975
This review assesses the first National Atlas of Canada (4th edition), a 284-page volume published as a government-private co-publication. The atlas adopts a smaller format and scale (1:15 million) compared to predecessors, aiming to refine public perception of Canada rather than utilitarian decision-making. Contents include physical geography (relief, hydrology, geology, soils, climate) and economic geography (trade, labour, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, transport). The reviewer notes high standards of design and reproduction, though some maps suffer from colour choices, small lettering, and misregistration. Overall, despite growing reliance on digital data, the atlas remains valuable for offering an accessible, integrated overview of the nation.
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