Milestones in the Development of Modern Chinese Cartography: Characteristics and Innovations of the National Atlas of China

Summary

The National Atlas of China is a major innovative achievement of Chinese science and technology in the 20th century. This paper reviews its compilation history and focuses on its characteristics and innovations: it is a complete collection of information on China's nature, population, economy, society and history; it systematically summarizes research results in geosciences, biology, environmental science, economics and history; it implements the strategy of sustainable development and highlights the relationship between humans and nature; and it realizes the fundamental transformation from traditional techniques to fully digital and automated production, with electronic and Internet atlases meeting the needs of the information society. Compiled by over 1,700 experts from 216 institutions, the atlas contains more than 2,580 maps in five volumes. Its completion has great scientific significance, application value and social benefits, promotes the development of Chinese cartography and exerts international influence, marking a milestone in the development of modern Chinese cartography.