Brief History of Topographic Mapping GIF
![Gif showing icons depicting topographic mapmaking from the 1880s through the 2000s](/s3/files/styles/full_width/public/media/images/TopoMapsHistoryScratch.gif?itok=kGhDs1it)
Detailed Description
From the 1880s until the advent of computers and geographic information system (GIS) software, topographic maps served as the essential instrument for the integration and analysis of place-based information. USGS mapping techniques evolved over the course of more than 130 years from field surveys through photogrammetry to computer-based and GIS analysis currently in widespread use. The topographic map remains an indispensable tool for everyday use in government, science, industry, land management planning, and recreation.
Sources/Usage
Public Domain.