L'Atlas de la Guadeloupe

Summary

This article is an in-depth review of the "Atlas of Guadeloupe," published in 1982, which marked the completion of the series of atlases of French Overseas Departments (1975-1982). It first introduces the series' director, Guy Lasserre, and his academic vision of providing solid material for reflection to aid in the planning and development of these tropical territories. The review then details the atlas's contents. In physical geography, it covers the geology and geomorphology of Guadeloupe, particularly its volcanic structures (like the Soufrière volcano) and karst landscapes (such as the Grands Fonds). The climatology section analyzes the trade wind system, seasonal variations, and the formation and tracks of tropical cyclones (like Hurricane David in 1979). The vegetation and soil maps illustrate the altitudinal zonation of ecosystems. In human and economic geography, the article discusses population growth, shifts in employment structure (a sharp decline in agriculture, expansion of the tertiary sector), energy supply, modernization of transport networks (roads, ports, airports), and improvements in administrative, health, and educational infrastructure. It also pays special attention to the dependent islands (La Désirade, Les Saintes, Saint-Barthélemy, and French Saint-Martin), highlighting their demographic pressures, decline of traditional activities, and the socio-ecological challenges posed by tourism development. The article concludes by praising the atlas as a rich and meticulously crafted scholarly work, an indispensable and authoritative tool for the study and planning of the French overseas departments.