National Atlas of the United States of America

Summary

The United States was a latecomer among nations in producing a National Atlas. Following a 1950 prototype by the American Geographical Society and uneven efforts by the National Academy of Sciences committee (1954-1961), responsibility was transferred in 1962 to the U.S. Geological Survey. Specifications and plotting bases were completed in 1963; work was interrupted by lack of funds in 1964 and resumed in 1965. The completed atlas, scheduled for 1968, comprises approximately 400 pages, covering physical features, history, economics, social conditions, administration, and world relationships, with a gazetteer-like index. Over 40 federal agencies and numerous academic institutions contribute data; production is centralized in the USGS. This is the first systematic cartographic monograph of the United States.