Introduction to Foreign Atlases: The National Atlas of the United States

Summary

This article reviews two significant American atlases. The first is The National Atlas of the United States of America (1970), compiled by the U.S. Geological Survey with 84 cooperating agencies, containing 765 maps that comprehensively depict the nation's physical geography, history, socio-economic activities, and global standing. The article details its structure: general reference maps (1:2,000,000), thematic maps (physical, historical, economic, socio-cultural, maritime, etc., at scales from 1:5,000,000 to 1:34,000,000), transparent overlay sheets, cartographic sample maps, and bird's-eye views. It evaluates its projection choices (Albers equal-area conic) and the quality of various thematic maps, noting the lack of coordination among them as a serious flaw. The second is Goode's World Atlas, a renowned American school reference atlas now in its 15th edition. The article summarizes its features: the Goode homolosine projection, prominent city maps, and a balance of general reference and thematic maps, while offering suggestions for improving its projection system, relief shading, and symbolization. Both atlases reflect American cartographic standards and characteristics.