Synthetic maps and their using in national atlases

Summary

This article examines the definition, classification, and role of synthetic maps in national atlases. A synthetic map provides an integrated characterization of a phenomenon or system by analyzing and synthesizing the properties and interrelations of its elements. Such maps may be classified by subject, scope, form—typology or regionalization—and depth of synthesis. The author reviewed at least 86 national atlases published worldwide between 1960 and 1989 and identified 450 synthetic maps, representing 12.3% of all maps examined. Physical-geographical themes accounted for 69.6% of synthetic maps, especially vegetation, relief, and geology, while population and agriculture predominated among socio-economic themes. Their share generally increased over time, reaching 20.6% in 1985–1989. By presenting extensive knowledge through simplified, legible graphics, synthetic maps improve information accessibility and are becoming indispensable to modern national, regional, and complex atlases.