World Wall Map 1960 by National Geographic

Borders, Currents & Independence — World Wall Map (1960)

A snapshot of a world in transition, rendered with clarity and restraint. Published by National Geographic in 1960, this world sheet captures the sweeping post-colonial changes in Africa as of September 1960. Vivid country borders, thousands of place names (including capitals), and rich oceanography—depth curves and soundings (in fathoms), warm/cold currents, and prevailing winds—are set out in clean, legible cartography that rewards both room-distance viewing and close study. North and South Polar insets, international time zones, and a United Nations / Communist World inset round out a compelling, era-true reference.

More Than a Map – A Testament to History

This isn’t just wall art—it’s a record of decolonisation and global connectivity at a pivotal moment. Trace newly independent African states, compare UN membership against geopolitical blocs, and read the world’s networks via principal airports, canals, and transport corridors layered over terrain and sea. Ideal for educators, planners, historians, designers, and collectors, this sheet pairs beautifully with earlier and later National Geographic world maps for a powerful then-and-now display.

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

Why Choose This Map

✔ Era-True Snapshot: African independence and global borders exactly as mapped in 1960.
✔ Layered Context: UN / bloc inset, time zones, and polar panels at a glance.
✔ Network Insight: Airports, canals, and currents connect political and physical geography.
✔ Clarity at Scale: Classic National Geographic design with dense, readable detail.
✔ 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 turning point of 1960 into focus. Order the World Wall Map (1960) today—a faithful, beautifully produced sheet that turns a room into a conversation.