Besprechungen: Atlas geograficzno-statystyczny Polski

Summary

This review examines the first two fascicles of Romer's Geographical-Statistical Atlas of Poland. The atlas covers the entire territory of the former Polish Kingdom and contains 32 maps addressing hypsometry, geology, climate, flora, history, administration, population density, ethnicity, religion, education, agriculture, industry, and transportation. The reviewer questions the inclusion of historical territories in a geographical-statistical work, and critically assesses the accuracy of the ethnographic maps: in Galicia, the apparent increase in Polish population is attributed to the reclassification of Jews as Poles; in Prussia, Romer's delineations are shown to be erroneous; and even official data prove unreliable, as entire German communities are labeled Polish. The significant growth of the Jewish population is noted as a potential challenge for Poland's future reorganization. The map on education is described as particularly striking, revealing that 25–75% of Poles and over 75% of Ruthenians are illiterate.