Introduction to the Soviet World Atlas

Summary

This article systematically introduces the Soviet World Atlas, an unprecedentedly large and comprehensive geographical work. The atlas comprises three volumes: the first covers world and Soviet Union general maps, the second details Soviet republics, and the third covers global regions. The article outlines the contents of each volume, spanning physical, economic, and historical geography. It highlights four key features: reflecting the superiority of the socialist system, exposing the decadence of capitalism, applying a historical perspective, and emphasizing regional characteristics, alongside innovations in cartographic methods such as unified hypsometric layering and combined industrial representation. The compilation process is also examined, crediting Lenin's directives, state resolutions, and collective scientific effort for its success. The article aims to introduce this epoch-making atlas to Chinese readers and draw lessons from its advanced practices.