Ein neuer tschechoslowakischer Nationalatlas

Summary

This paper reviews the newly published national atlas of Czechoslovakia. The atlas comprises 58 map sheets containing approximately 440 individual maps at various scales, accompanied by trilingual explanatory texts in Czech, English, and Russian. It largely follows the established principles for compiling national atlases and provides a comprehensive picture of the country's regional structure, with a strong emphasis on the processing of statistical data. The reviewer highlights that combining large-scale inset maps with small-scale chorographic overviews represents a significant way to enhance the expressive power of national atlases. The review further evaluates the cartographic design and content of specific thematic maps, including geological, geomorphological, climatic, population, and economic maps, noting both their strengths and shortcomings. The atlas is regarded as a cultural achievement of high standing that can effectively showcase the accomplishments of the socialist Czechoslovak state to the world.