Subject

Geography -- History Books

Best books

Edward Luther Stevenson

Terrestrial and Celestial Globes Volume 2
 Their History and Construction Including a Consideration of their Value as Aids in the Study of Geography and Astronomy

"Terrestrial and Celestial Globes Volume 2" by Edward Luther Stevenson is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This volume serves as a continuation of an exploration into the history and construction of globes, examining the contributions of various globe makers and their significance in the fields of geography and astronomy. At the start of the book, the author discusses the shift in the focus of globe making to the northwest of Europe at the end of the 16th century, particularly highlighting the role of Dutch artisans such as Jodocus Hondius and Willem Jansz. Blaeu. Stevenson elaborates on the burgeoning demand for both terrestrial and celestial globes due to the age of exploration, emphasizing the meticulous craftsmanship behind these instruments. He introduces key figures and their contributions to globe making, setting the stage for a deeper discussion of the technology and artistry involved in their creation throughout the following chapters.

Edward Luther Stevenson

Terrestrial and Celestial Globes Volume 1
 Their History and Construction Including a Consideration of their Value as Aids in the Study of Geography and Astronomy

"Terrestrial and Celestial Globes Volume 1" by Edward Luther Stevenson is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work provides a detailed historical account of globes—both terrestrial and celestial—exploring their construction, significance, and evolution as tools in the disciplines of geography and astronomy. The author meticulously examines the historical development of globes from antiquity to the early modern period, highlighting pivotal figures and inventions in the field. The opening of the volume outlines the initial chapters focused on the origins of astronomical and geographical sciences, discussing key early civilizations and thinkers such as the Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans. Stevenson emphasizes the primitive attempts at map-making and globe construction that date back to ancient cultures, detailing contributions from notable figures like Anaximander, Ptolemy, and Eratosthenes. This foundational discussion sets the stage for delving into more specific historical developments of globe-making and their applications in understanding the world, suggesting a comprehensive treatment of the subject throughout the text.

John Scott Keltie

History of Geography

"History of Geography" by Sir John Scott Keltie and O. J. R. Howarth is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the evolution of geography as a discipline, outlining its development from ancient times through to the modern era. The book emphasizes the significance of geographical knowledge in advancing various fields of human understanding and its vital role in society. The opening of this text provides an introduction to the concept of geography, describing it as a fundamental science that traces humanity's interaction with the Earth’s environment. The authors clarify that while the book does not focus on geographical exploration per se, it acknowledges pivotal events in the history of geography as a scientific practice. They discuss the primitive instincts of early humans as unintentional geographers, noting early practices like map-making among various civilizations, including the Egyptians and Mesopotamians, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of geographical concepts developed by the Greeks and Romans.

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