The world cannot be accurately represented by a map, however, it emphasizes the representations of a place and acts as a traveler’s best friend. It exhibits the preferences, prejudices, and goals of the mapmaker. Be critical of any maps you create or observe. They may depict the entire earth or just a portion of it. Because we process visuals in our brains more quickly than texts, the human brain tends to retain maps better than any written text. They are a more effective means of describing any area. So you may wonder what exactly does a map depict or what is the significance of maps? How many types of maps are there? What are a reference and Thematic maps? Don’t worry we will map it out together!
1. Who invented Maps? Who Created the First Map of the World?
Before we dive into understanding the significance of maps, let us look at who invented them. It is believed that in the sixth century BC, Greek scholar Anaximander produced the first map of the entire planet, treating the earth to be cylindrical. Eventually, the first map was invented by assuming the spherical earth was Eratosthenes. Latitude and longitude were first used by Ptolemy to create global maps. He also produced a 6-volume Atlas named Geographia in 150 A.D.
2. Why is Map Important? What is the Purpose of a Map?
A map is a figurative representation that shows the connections between various components of a given space, including things, places, and ideas. The entire planet is concise in a simple, visual way which assists you in getting from one place to another. Determining your location as well as giving you the best course to follow is a reason why they are a traveler’s best friend. Thematic maps and reference maps are widely used today. (See What a physical map shows?)
3. What is the Significance of Maps? What are the Various Uses of Maps?
After understanding the significance of maps, let us look at their uses in detail. Following are some of its uses:
- In addition to helping us determine the distance between two spots, they also help us navigate strange places.
- There are primarily 2 types of maps, i.e. thematic and reference maps. Thematic maps portray the geographic pattern or distribution of a particular area like the population, rainfall, etc. whereas reference maps communicate the physical/cultural features of an area like rivers, mountains, etc.
- Learning about the mountains, rivers, valleys, etc. helps in determining the appropriate course.
- An in-depth study of the distributions helps in forecasting future conditions and operations as well.
4. Why is Map Important in our Daily Life?
We may find locations such as cities, districts, states, and countries with the aid of maps. Nearby restaurants, stores, medical shops, petrol pumps, etc. are all depicted on the maps which makes it easier for a driver. Maps enable us to understand the main highways and train lines that are used for transportation. Using maps, we can better understand how crops, minerals, and soils are distributed.
5. Why are Maps Important in History?
The significance of maps in history is immense because they often show the world as it was at the time of their creation. These maps provide information about the happenings of the past, their developments, ancient land areas, population distribution, etc; providing a wealth of information about how the former populations viewed the world. Must read how to distinguish between a physical map and a political map.
6. Why are Maps more useful than Globes? What are the Advantages of Maps as compared to Globes?
A globe provides you with limited information and is helpful when you study the earth as a whole. But if we wish to learn about a particular region of the planet, such as a nation or a state then maps are what you need to look out for. When we simply wish to examine a small portion of the planet, such as certain regions, nations, states, cities, and towns, a globe is of little help. The use of a map, on the other hand, is useful for researching details in tiny areas or aspects of a larger area. (See How is Relative Location Found?)
7. What are the Disadvantages of Maps as compared to Globe?
Since the earth is a three-dimensional object and cannot be adequately depicted on flat maps, all maps exhibit distortions. Maps without scale provide a poor sense of distances, and those without a legend are typically difficult for users to understand.
8. What is Study of Maps called?
The study of maps is called Cartography. The significance is that they help you explore places and people as well. This study is practiced by cartographers who specialize in creating maps. (See What is North South East West called on a Map?)
