Introduction to Maps

Technically speaking, a map is a graphic representation on a flat surface of earth's surface seen from above.

In my opinion, this definition is misleading. It is dry and reduces the map to a mundane object. A map is much more than that. It is a rich, colorful and talkative tool used by historical researchers and authors. All the researcher needs to do is listen to it. Maps are chatterboxes. They have a lot to say and they open up under the keen eye of the historical researcher.

The Bottom Line
In its simplest form, a map tells us:
- Where we are. - How far it is from one place to the other.
- What direction to take.
- The different ways to a place.
- General information on the area.

Getting to Know You, Getting To Know All About You...
Whatever information a researcher is looking for, there is a map to fit his needs. There are many different types of maps. Each one gives a particular type of information.

Let's take a look at some of the most common types:

Roadmap - Roadmaps show us the roads we can take to go from point A to point B. It also shows us airports, railroad tracks, cities and other points of interest.

Topographic Maps - Topographic map are easy to recognize. They are the ones with the swirls and circles within circles. These circles are topographic contour lines. They are of different widths and indicate equal elevation. The topographic maps also shows other features such as streets, buildings, streams.

Physical Maps - Although less specialized than the topographic map, the physical map also shows the difference in land elevation, as well as the existence of mountains, rivers, and lakes.

Geographical Maps - These maps show rock types and mining areas.

Aerial Maps - Aerial maps show regions as seen from a satellite. A good example of this type of map is the Google Earth Home feature.

Political Maps - Political maps show national and state boundaries as well as capitals and major cities.

Historical Maps - These maps are the kings of chatterboxes. They talk about economic growth, settlement patterns, military campaigns, transportation development, effects of plagues, and an endless list of other facts.

Climatic or Rainfall Maps - These maps give information about a region's climate and the amount of rain.

Natural Resource and Economic Maps - These maps plot natural resources in an area and reveal how the economy of an area increased or decreased.

Maps Are Easy to Read
Maps are user-friendly, and the researcher needs no special skill to read one. Get used to maps before starting out on historical research and, I promise, they will become friends of yours.

Check out A Lesson In Map Reading and Using Visualization in Historical Research. The first article will teach you how a researching author can build a solid base using maps. The second article will teach you how to use visualization when working with maps