The National Atlas of the United States of America

Summary

When the National Atlas was completed in loose-leaf form in 1961, the National Atlas Committee, established by the National Academy of Sciences, recommended that the Geological Survey of the United States be entrusted with the task of publishing a new atlas. A group of technicians began work in 1963 by preparing map layouts and base maps, and established contacts with federal agencies, professional associations, universities, commercial cartography companies, and specialists. Although many organizations and numerous individuals are to contribute to the preparation of the new atlas, the Geological Survey of the United States alone will be responsible for its publication, with a view to ensuring uniformity of style and format. The Atlas will comprise approximately 400 plates, of which 300 will contain social maps at scales of 1:7,500,000, 1:17,000,000, and 1:34,000,000, covering physical features, history, economic and social conditions, educational achievements, and administrative divisions. It is anticipated that this atlas will be completed in 1967.