Register of thematic maps: Atlas of the Republic of Chile

Summary

This review examines the Atlas of the Republic of Chile, published by the Chilean Military Geographic Institute in 1966 through collaboration between its technical staff and scholars from the University of Chile. Organized into background materials, physical maps, and thematic maps, the atlas employs sheet division, modified polyconic projection, qualitative symbols, and color zoning to portray Chile’s terrain, population, and economy. The article praises its graphic quality, effective use of landscape photographs, and value for understanding regional patterns. It nevertheless identifies weaknesses: the introductory section lacks historical depth; maps of regional divisions, vegetation, and overall hypsometry are absent; several thematic maps are poorly sequenced; and the color scheme for population density impairs interpretation. Despite these limitations, the atlas fills an important gap in Chilean thematic cartography and demonstrates the technical capacity needed to produce a more comprehensive national atlas.