The Library of Lost Maps

James Cheshire

Description

At the heart of University College London lies a long-forgotten map library packed with thousands of maps and atlases. James Cheshire stumbled upon it and was stunned to uncover some of the most significant maps and atlases from the last two centuries – many of which had not seen the light of day for decades. The Library of Lost Maps is the remarkable story of this overlooked map archive that reveals how maps have helped inspire some of the greatest scientific discoveries but also led to terrible atrocities.

Discover atlases for the masses that expanded nineteenth-century horizons and maps that were wielded by those in power to wage war and negotiate peace; charts that trace the icy peaks of the Himalayas and the deepest depths of the ocean; and pioneering maps produced to settle borders in central Europe or the wealth of those in inner-city London. Maps have played a vital role in shaping our scientific knowledge of the world, showing the impact of climate change and inspiring the theory of plate tectonics. They have also guided politicians, encouraging both beneficial reforms and horrific conquests, the consequences of which we continue to live with today.

Brimming with astonishing discoveries, the book reveals why cartography really matters and how map-making has helped transform our understanding of the world around us.

Details

  • Format
    Hardback
  • Pages
    384
  • Size
    250 x 185mm
  • Publisher
    Bloomsbury
  • ISBN
    9781526676610
Stock Code
250728
Our Price
$49.99
1 in stock for immediate dispatch
Add to Favourites

Worth Considering