Mapping and Imagination in the Great Basin: Uncovering the Hidden Histories of a Vast and Enigmatic Region

: The Allure of the Great Basin

Stretching across the western United States, the Great Basin is a vast, arid region that has long captivated the imaginations of explorers, scientists, and artists. Its desolate landscapes, towering mountains, and mysterious deserts have inspired countless stories and legends, hinting at a rich and hidden history waiting to be uncovered.

In "Mapping and Imagination in the Great Basin," acclaimed author and historian Laura Jones takes readers on a captivating journey through this enigmatic region, revealing the ways in which maps and other visual representations have shaped our understanding of its past and present.

Mapping And Imagination In The Great Basin: A Cartographic History

by Richard V. Francaviglia

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	25193 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages
Paperback	:	298 pages
Item Weight	:	15.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.75 x 9 inches

FREE

Chapter 1: Early Explorations and the Birth of Cartography

The first chapter explores the early explorations of the Great Basin by Spanish conquistadors, French trappers, and American settlers. Jones examines the rudimentary maps they created, which were often based on hearsay and imagination, and how these maps influenced their understanding of the region.

As the 19th century dawned, a new era of scientific exploration began, and the Great Basin became a focus of intense study. Government-sponsored expeditions led by John C. Frémont and Clarence King produced detailed maps that revealed the region's complex topography, hydrography, and geology.

Chapter 2: The Power of the Map in Shaping Policy

Chapter 2 investigates the role of maps in shaping federal policy towards the Great Basin. As settlers and miners poured into the region, the government used maps to determine land ownership, establish transportation routes, and manage natural resources.

Jones argues that maps were not merely neutral representations of the landscape, but active agents in the process of colonization. They often ignored or erased the presence of Native American tribes, whose traditional lands were being encroached upon.

Chapter 3: The Rise of the Tourist Gaze

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Great Basin became a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure and escape. Railroads and automobile highways made the region more accessible, and scenic postcards and brochures promoted its wonders.

Jones analyzes how these visual representations framed the Great Basin as a pristine wilderness, concealing its history of human habitation and environmental degradation. This tourist gaze continues to shape our perception of the region today.

Chapter 4: Mapping the Unseen: Hydrogeology and the Hidden Waters

Chapter 4 delves into the fascinating world of hydrogeology and the hidden waters of the Great Basin. Jones explores how maps and other visualizations have helped scientists understand the complex underground aquifers and springs that sustain life in this arid region.

She highlights the importance of these hidden waters to the survival of Native American communities and the challenges they face from climate change and groundwater depletion.

Chapter 5: Navigating the Cultural Landscape: Maps of Identity and Belonging

The final chapter shifts its focus to the present day, examining the ways in which maps are used to negotiate cultural identity and belonging in the Great Basin. Jones discusses the role of tribal maps in preserving ancestral lands and the use of geospatial technologies to promote social and environmental justice.

She concludes by emphasizing the importance of inclusive and participatory mapping practices that acknowledge the diverse histories and perspectives of the region's inhabitants.

: Mapping the Future

In her , Jones reflects on the transformative power of maps and the importance of understanding their historical and cultural context. She calls for a more nuanced and equitable approach to mapping the Great Basin, one that embraces multiple perspectives and recognizes the interconnectedness of its human and natural landscapes.

"Mapping and Imagination in the Great Basin" is a groundbreaking work that sheds new light on this enigmatic region and its rich history. Through its detailed research, captivating storytelling, and stunning visuals, it invites readers to explore the complex relationship between maps, imagination, and the shaping of our world.

Mapping And Imagination In The Great Basin: A Cartographic History

by Richard V. Francaviglia

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	25193 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages
Paperback	:	298 pages
Item Weight	:	15.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.75 x 9 inches

FREE