Borders, Routes & Nations — World Wall Map (1951)
A snapshot of a world resetting after war, rendered with clarity and restraint. Published by National Geographic in 1951, this world sheet captures post-WWII international boundaries, the rise of global institutions, and expanding transport networks. Country borders, major cities and capitals, rail routes and primary roads, and ocean currents are set out in clean, legible cartography that rewards both room-distance viewing and close study. Inset panels spotlight Antarctica and the Arctic, and a dedicated United Nations inset lists member states as of December 1951—optimism and order, beautifully engraved for display.
More Than a Map – A Testament to History
This isn’t just wall art—it’s a reference frame for the early Cold War era. Compare borders redrawn after 1945, consult the UN membership roll, and view blocs marked as the Communist World and Atlantic Pact countries—all in context with global currents and routes. Ideal for educators, planners, historians, designers, and collectors, this sheet stands alone beautifully and pairs perfectly with the 1943 and 1970 National Geographic world maps for a sweeping mid-century timeline.
Hang it in studios, libraries, classrooms, museums, offices, or at home to invite reflection, study, and conversation.
Premium Materials & Finishes
We treat history with the respect it deserves. That’s why we offer multiple formats, each produced using high-quality materials and modern archival printing.
🌟 Archival Paper Print
Printed on heavyweight 160gsm archival-grade paper.
Smooth matte finish reduces glare and preserves fine linework and small labels.
Ideal for framing under glass—clean, timeless, and built to last.
💎 Laminated Edition
Encapsulated in two sheets of 80-micron gloss laminate using true thermal bonding—not just surface lamination.
Moisture-resistant, wipe-clean surface—perfect for classrooms and high-traffic reference spaces.
Optional Natural Timber Hang Rails: lacquered rails with a fitted hanging cord provide a polished, ready-to-hang presentation—no frame required. (Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery with hang rails.)
🏆 Museum-Quality Canvas
Printed on heavyweight 395gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas for rich texture and exceptional strength.
Pigment-based, fade-resistant inks deliver deep tone and crisp typography that endure for generations.
Optional Natural Timber Hang Rails: lacquered to enhance the wood grain and protect against wear; top cord for effortless hanging—elegant in any setting. (Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery with hang rails.)
Specifications
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Title | World Wall Map |
Series | National Geographic single-sheet world map |
Original Publication | 1951 |
Scale | Not specified |
Cartographic Content | Post-WWII international boundaries; UN inset with member list (Dec 1951); blocs marked as Communist World & Atlantic Pact; capitals & major cities; rail routes; major roads; ocean currents; Arctic & Antarctica insets |
Map Size | 1063 mm (W) × 699 mm (H) |
Available Formats | Paper, Laminated, Canvas |
Paper Weight | 160gsm archival-quality |
Laminate | 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate sheets (encapsulated) |
Canvas Weight | 395gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas |
Inks | Pigment-based, fade-resistant |
Optional Hang Rails | Available on Laminated & Canvas (lead time up to 10 working days) |
Origin | Made in Australia |
Why Choose This Map
✔ Era-True Snapshot: Borders and alliances exactly as mapped in 1951.
✔ UN at a Glance: Membership inset documents the postwar international order.
✔ Network Insight: Rail and road overlays with ocean currents for global context.
✔ Decorative & Scholarly: Strong wall presence with genuine reference value.
✔ Archival Craft: Premium substrates and inks preserve contrast, labels, and linework for decades.
Our Commitment
We believe that preserving history is as important as telling it. Every map is printed locally in Australia using state-of-the-art technology, carefully checked by hand, and packed with care. From the moment it leaves our workshop to the day it hangs on your wall, we ensure quality you can trust and a legacy you’ll be proud to share.
Bring the post-war world into focus. Order the World Wall Map (1951) today—a faithful, beautifully produced sheet that turns a room into a conversation.