Google's digital atlas is growing to encompass not just the whole world, but also all of history. The new Google Maps Gallery consists of many maps complete with sociological, ecological and historical data from both the past and present.
The maps are divided into categories, including Boundaries, Crisis, Historical, Environment, Social & Culture, Space and many more. Each category only holds a few maps at present, but Google aims to make its collection grow. Google has issued an open invitation to all organizations and businesses that are interested in adding maps to its growing collection.
The goal is to make mapping data available for anyone and everyone, rather than locking it away in a museum showcase, private residence or business archive. After all, maps are not just about topography. Maps can show all sorts of information, including population, linguistic borders, ecological changes and even societal changes like the use of Internet or our perception of the world.
"Governments, nonprofits and businesses have some of the most valuable mapping data in the world, but it's often locked away and not accessible to the public," Jordan Breckenridge, product manager of Google Maps, wrote on the Google Enterprise blog.
One of the most popular maps shows America during the Civil War; another, the Lewis and Clarke expedition. The maps are interactive, so you can zoom in and out to see different details and you can even enter your location or another specific address to see how the map looks from that particular perspective. Other maps show Internet usage around the world, reproductive health rights and housing affordability in the United States - just to name a few.
"Maps Gallery works like an interactive, digital atlas where anyone can search for and find rich, compelling maps," Breckenridge wrote.
The Google Maps Gallery is an invaluable resource for educators and students, looking for a unique approach to analyzing historical, social and other changes.
"Organizations using Maps Gallery can communicate critical information, build awareness and inform the public at-large," Google's blog post about the initiative read.
So far, Google has received maps from the World Bank Group, National Geographic Society,U.S. Geological Survey, Florida Emergency Management and the City of Edmonton. However, Google hopes that its collection will soon grow, making the Maps Gallery a true digital atlas.
