Atlas Nacional de México, todo el país al hombro

Summary

This article presents the National Atlas of Mexico, produced by the Institute of Geography at UNAM, considered the most important geographical work in Mexico in the 20th century. After five years of interdisciplinary work involving 300 specialists, 15 UNAM units, six public institutions and international advisors, the atlas compiles 600 maps in 160 plates distributed in three volumes. Volume I covers general maps, historical processes and social conditions; Volume II addresses natural features and the environment; Volume III focuses on economic activities and international relations. In addition to traditional topics, it includes original cartography on biodiversity, fauna, urban growth and risk areas. The atlas was printed in Mexico, a pioneering case for a work of this kind, with quality comparable to or above European standards. A key outcome was the creation of a geographic and statistical data bank that can support local and municipal research. The article also describes the Geography Institute's academic infrastructure, including remote sensing and environmental analysis laboratories, and its collaborations with institutions such as Cuba's Academy of Sciences. The atlas is valued both as a scientific reference and as a planning tool for agriculture, urban development, environmental protection and industrial location. Its modular format allows updating and partial acquisition. The author concludes that the National Atlas of Mexico represents a genuine national cartographic achievement: although not a mythological Atlas, it sustains the entire country on its shoulders.