A collection of maps, cartograms, and reproductions of early maps on many different scales, illustrating the natural environment of the United States and its demographic, economic, political, and military history. The text explains the maps and lists the sources from which they complied.

The natural environment -- Cartography, 1492-1867 -- Indians, 1567-1930 -- Explorations in the West and Southwest, 1535-1852 -- Lands, 1603-1930 -- Settlement, population, and towns, 1650-1790 -- States, territories, and cities, 1790-1930 -- Population, 1790-1930 -- Colleges, universities, and churches, 1775-1890 -- Boundaries, 1607-1927 -- Political parties and opinion, 1788-1930 -- Political, social, and educational reforms, 1775-1931 -- Industries and transportation, 1620-1931 -- Foreign commerce, 1701-1929 -- Distribution of wealth, 1799-1928 -- Plans of cities, 1775-1803 -- Military history, 1689-1919 -- Possessions and territorial claims of the United States; also certain military operations and grounds formerly frequented (ca. 1815-1860) by American whalers.