Historical World Atlas

by Hammond World Atlas Corporation

This newly revised edition takes a comprehensive look at the most significant periods and major events in civilization's history. Through the 118 full-color maps (arranged chronologically) and the 8-page time chart with a graphic history of mankind, students can better understand the events and cultural forces that shaped world history. It also includes detailed graphs of infant mortality rates, population, world food supplies, and gross national product to expand their knowledge. This latest edition was expanded to include 16 additional pages with an emphasis on Asian and African history.

Genres: History, Reference, Nonfiction, Geography, Atlases, Maps, Science

72 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1972

Reviews

[Dennis Boccippio · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adequate, if slim, and a little high-school-library-ish. For map purists, this atlas is all-maps, all the time. The large format is appealing and there are is an interesting mix of map content focus (occasionally odd, but usually interesting).

The drawback (aside from skimpy size) is the maps are highly dated in their typographic/color/design styles, which while nostalgically appealing, is murder on legibility. The later editions are clearly minor tweaks of the much older original, rather than reworks.

I purchased the Anchor Atlas of World History at the same time, which in a quick flip-through looks like a much more complete and fascinating coverage of history through map storytelling, with more interesting content, and includes deep detail in narrative, but also needs a scanning electron microscope to read (4.5" x 7"). Still hunting for the perfect historical atlas.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

I grew up with the Hammond Historical Atlas of the World. At least two people have rated this work as "one star" with no explanation. Perhaps that was bitterness from bad memories of school. In any case, this atlas is more than competent for the high school student or casual reader: it is concise, colorful, comprehensive, and free of any obvious errors. What more do you want really?

[Thom Dunn]

Gift of Ken Engler, now retired from Hammond.