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South America - Published 1942 by National Geographic

South America Wall Map - Published 1942 by National Geographic

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Scale: 1:8,500,000 | Published: 1942 | Made in Australia


🌎 South America in a World at War

When National Geographic released this 1942 edition of its South America wall map, the world was deep in the midst of the Second World War. While much of the northern hemisphere was engulfed in conflict, South America remained a largely untouched expanse of roadless interiors, uncharted river systems, and vast, wild landscapes.

This map captures the continent at a critical historical moment β€” a region of immense natural resources and strategic importance, yet still home to remote frontiers. The vibrant colours and fine cartography typical of National Geographic of the era bring to life both the political divisions and the physical grandeur of the land.

Detailed insets of the Galapagos Islands, along with climate and precipitation data, airway routes, and shaded relief, offer a richly layered geographic and environmental picture. This is not just a political map β€” it is a visual record of South America’s place in the world during one of the most defining decades of the 20th century.


πŸ“œ Historical Significance

  • Wartime Cartography – Produced during WWII, reflecting both scientific precision and geopolitical awareness.

  • Comprehensive Insets – Galapagos Islands, climate charts, airways, and relief data for a multi-dimensional view.

  • Pre-Modern Transport Era – Before the continent’s vast highway networks were built.


πŸ“ Map Specifications

  • Scale: 1:8,500,000

  • Size: 700 mm (wide) x 999 mm (high)

  • Projection: Balanced for clarity and geographic accuracy.

  • Reproduction Quality: Faithful to the original 1942 printing with every line and colour detail preserved.


πŸ–Œ Premium Finishing Options

Format Description
Paper (160 gsm) Heavyweight matte-coated paper β€” perfect for framing under glass.
Laminated Encapsulated in 80-micron gloss laminate for durability and easy cleaning.
Laminated + Hang Rails Ready-to-hang with natural timber rails and cord for instant display.
Canvas (395 gsm) Museum-grade matte canvas with archival pigment inks for exceptional texture and fade resistance.
Canvas + Hang Rails Canvas with timber hang rails for a warm, heritage-style presentation.

Framing Note: Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed maps, as they are custom-mounted by our framer.


🎯 Ideal For

  • Historians & Collectors – A wartime geographic record of South America.

  • Educators – An engaging teaching tool for history, geography, and world affairs.

  • Travel Enthusiasts – A snapshot of the continent before modern development.

  • Decor & Display – Adds depth, heritage, and intrigue to libraries, offices, or study spaces.


🌟 Why Choose This Map?

  • Captures South America at a pivotal moment in global history.

  • Blends artistry, cartography, and historical context.

  • Available in multiple premium display formats.

  • Made in Australia using archival-quality materials.


Add aΒ rare and historically rich piece of cartographic art to your wall. This National Geographic 1942 South America map is more than a map β€” it’s a time capsule of an extraordinary era.

πŸ›’ Order now and preserve a piece of history in your home, office, or classroom.




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