A cartographic representation of the Earth’s surface reflecting the geopolitical landscape as it existed approximately eighty years ago. These maps document national boundaries, colonial possessions, and place names of the period leading up to and during the early years of the Second World War. They serve as visual records of a specific era, illustrating the distribution of power, territories, and influence across the globe at that time.
The significance lies in their ability to provide historical context and understanding of the events that shaped the mid-20th century. Examining these depictions reveals the extent of empires, the location of strategic resources, and the prevailing political ideologies of the era. Furthermore, they offer a point of comparison for observing the dramatic shifts in global political arrangements that have occurred since, including decolonization, the emergence of new nations, and the redrawing of international borders.
