A Milestone in Chinese Cartography: A Delightful Read of the National General Atlas

Summary

The National General Atlas, published in 1995 as the first volume of the National Atlas Series of the People's Republic of China, marks a new milestone in China's cartographic achievements. This paper systematically reviews the atlas from aspects of binding design, content structure, and compilation features. The atlas comprises three sections—preliminary maps, regional maps, and provincial maps—totaling 180 pages, supplemented by a 99-page place-name index. It features rich information, harmonious color schemes, and a scientifically rigorous projection system. The author highlights the atlas's distinctive Chinese characteristics in provincial map organization, sea chart compilation, and drainage system representation, while objectively analyzing the social causes of temporal limitations in map currency. The publication elevates China's atlas compilation theory and technology to a new level.