Homenaje a la Patria: Latin American National Atlases

Summary

This review essay examines six national atlases of Latin America produced between 1985 and 1992: those of Colombia, Mexico, Cuba, Peru, Panama, and Bolivia. Its purpose is to evaluate their cartographic quality, thematic coverage, and scholarly value using comparative content analysis. The atlases vary notably in design and depth. Mexico’s three-volume loose-leaf atlas offers exceptional thematic breadth and innovative layout but lacks an index. Cuba’s monumental volume excels in high-quality cartography and detailed treatment of the physical environment. Colombia’s fourth edition concentrates heavily on reference mapping, often at the expense of thematic richness, while Peru’s atlas integrates extensive textual commentary with department-level satellite images. Panama’s atlas achieves a balanced mix of maps and interpretative text, while Bolivia’s version, though visually appealing, omits critical economic geography and fails to provide a geographical index or full bibliography. All volumes contain a wealth of original, primary-source-based information on physical, historical, social, and economic conditions. The review concludes that, despite their individual shortcomings, these atlases are indispensable reference works for any academic library supporting Latin American studies, serving as enduring resources for interdisciplinary research.