The so-called national atlases and the first of them: The atlas of Finland

This article reviews the development of national atlases, focusing on the pioneering role of the Atlas of Finland as the first of its kind. It notes that a national atlas aims to systematically summarize a country's scientific knowledge in physical, human, economic, and political geography. First published in 1899, the Atlas of Finland set an example for other nations through its subsequent improved editions. The compilation of national atlases expanded globally during and after the interwar period, with a trend towards fascicle publication. The article lists various national atlases in progress or completed at the time and analyzes the characteristics and contributions of different editions of the Finnish atlas, emphasizing its significance in advancing geographical research and international comparison.