Book

Description

Mapaganda meaning how maps, scribbles and generally depictions are used to influence the general public. The word is compound from the words Map and Propaganda. By critically analyzing maps and understanding their historical context, we can gain a deeper understanding of how cartography has been employed as a means of political power and work towards a more equitable and just world. Throughout history, cartography has been used as a powerful political tool to manipulate how people view the world. Maps are not just a means of highlighting physical features, but are often used to support, promote and legitimize the actions of those in power. In numerous contexts of different periods or geographical places, various societies have employed cartography as a means of asserting dominance and establishing power over other cultures and societies. This book explores how maps were used as means of propaganda from antiquity into the modern era and up to the end of WWII. Based on such examples from different historical periods and geographical contexts the key aspects that seem to be common are related to the ways in which maps have been used to manipulate public opinion, establish territorial claims, support colonial endeavours, and advance military operations. We will consider how this practice has exerted a significant influence on public perception and the structuring of societies and civilizations around the world.