• Geography -> Cartography and topography

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When was the first geographic map created and by whom?

Lenora Sleeny

Ohh, you asked about the first geographic map ever created, interesting question my friend! Let's dive into the fascinating world of cartography.

The first map ever created dates back to ancient times, and it's hard to say who created it as it is believed to have been a collective effort of many early civilizations. The Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks all contributed to the development of cartography.

However, the first known person to create a geographical map is the Greek philosopher, Anaximander, who hailed from the city of Miletus. He created a map that represented the world as cylindrical, and it was engraved on a bronze tablet around 500 BCE. Anaximander's map was not an accurate representation of the world as we know it today, but it did lay the groundwork for future mapmakers.

After Anaximander, the Greeks continued to advance cartography with the likes of Pythagoras, Eratosthenes, and Ptolemy. Eratosthenes, a Greek mathematician, was able to calculate the circumference of the Earth using a stick and the angle of the sun's rays. He then used this information to create a more accurate map of the world.

Fast forward a few centuries, and cartography continued to evolve with the rise of exploration and colonialism. During this time, maps were used not only for traveling but also for political and military advantages. In the 16th century, Gerhard Mercator created one of the most significant maps in history, the Mercator Projection. It was a cylindrical map that accurately represented the outlines of countries and continents but distorted their sizes. This map was used by sailors for navigation and became the standard for mapmaking for hundreds of years.

In conclusion, the first geographical map ever created was by Anaximander, a Greek philosopher, around 500 BCE. Since then, mapmaking has come a long way and continues to evolve with technology and human advancement. Maps have become an integral part of our lives, and we can't imagine the world without them. So, let's appreciate all the cartographers who have contributed to this fascinating field. Cheers to maps!