Review Article: The National Atlas of the United States of America

Summary

This review assesses The National Atlas of the United States of America, a monumental 765‑map cartographic work produced through collaboration among 84 federal agencies, state bodies, universities, and individual scholars. The atlas was designed to serve as a scholarly reference, a government decision‑making tool, and a showcase of national cartographic excellence. It is organized into reference, thematic, and international‑connectivity sections within a refined page format employing three gray tones. The reference section centers on a new 1:2,000,000 map in 22 sheets, displaying extensive place names, transportation networks, and land holdings; however, the reviewer finds it overly utilitarian and lacking relief depiction. The thematic section is celebrated as an unprecedented compilation of physical, economic, social, and political maps at scales of 1:7,500,000, 1:17,000,000, and 1:34,000,000, enhanced by six plastic overlays for user‑controlled information. While the overall cartography, typography, and color registration are excellent, several maps exhibit weaknesses: conflicting dot‑choropleth symbolization obscures data, harsh color juxtapositions create visual strain, and minor registration slippage appears on sample series reproductions. The review concludes that, despite these flaws, the atlas represents one of the finest national atlases ever published, exceeding established standards and earning the gratitude of both the scholarly community and the general public.