Reviews: Atlas de France

Summary

This article reviews the first sixteen plates of the "Atlas of France" published by the French National Geographic Committee in 1933–34, covering topography, climate, mineral resources, industry, telecommunications, and population. The author argues that the contour interval chosen for the topographic maps is inappropriate, failing to adequately represent the lowland relief of plains. The climate maps are based on observations by Angot and others. The industrial maps show that metallurgy is concentrated in the eastern region. The population density maps, drawn at the commune level, are more precise than previous ones, revealing the continuous distribution of population along river valleys. In conclusion, despite certain shortcomings, the atlas retains geographical value and offers insightful contributions.