Maps provide geographic context to the dynamics of cities throughout history. Although they may not be able to convey context of social climate or political events of the moment like a historical text would be able to, there is incredible potential when it comes to drawing inferences from maps. First things first, the evolution of a city’s layout is a powerful initial milestone for mapping the manner in which a city grows, and connecting this growth to potential social, political, or natural issues or opportunities that ushered it in the direction it did.
As stated by the London-specific site itself, the mapping available regarding landing maps “crime, poor relief, taxation, elections, local administration, plague deaths and archaeological finds can all be searched and mapped on this site.” One distinction that should be made that “mapping” can be in regards to much more than simple geographic maps. In terms of data, mapping is effectively organizing information to help come to inferences regarding a factor at whatever time it is written.
In my site specifically, a full GIS compliant map of 1746 London was uploaded, rendered, and paired with applicable data from the time-period to help paint clear a picture of the city at that moment. Websites like these allow you to not only view the data sets they created, but also dive into the information itself. Subject breakdowns span as far as coroner’s records to production of glass and clay pipes.
Regardless, data is not absolute, even in the context of projects such as these. The assumptions and inferences can be backed by logic and true understanding of historical context. But for all the data that is available within this set and mapping, there are equal datapoints available that were not included. While this may not tarnish the reputation of the data we see available to us, it can call into question the motivation for choosing certain sets and excluding others. These choices, at the end of the day, impact how the entire project is displayed.
The map obscures much of the political activity in the area, and only looks at demographic movement and lifestyles, which are still valid in understanding the circumstances of an area at any given time, but cannot be take as all-powerful truth. It should be remembered that, according to Turnbull, all maps are perspectival and subjective. There is heavy reliance on how an author determines the drawing of maps, and this should always be kept in mind!
I like your line “data is not absolute”. I a hundred percent agree that while logic and historical context play heavy roles in shaping inferences and assumptions, it is still very subjective. What kind of maps do you think are most absolute?
Hi! Your post about your mapping project made me think about what the map I examined (Digital Harlem) provided and lacked. While my map conveyed social climate, it was difficult for me to see the evolution of a city’s layout over time, as your map did. I also liked how your map included crime, poor relief, taxation, elections, plague deaths, etc.
I liked your overall analysis of this site. I thought the point you made about how data and choosing data sets impacts a project. The critique you made about the authors input on the site was also very important when looking at the information displayed on the site.
I’m not sure if my comment posted so I’m writing it again.
I really like your blog and I agree! I looked at the same website and analyzed the map. You said “The map obscures much of the political activity in the area, and only looks at demographic movement and lifestyles” and you’re right. I believe the map should have more background info and data to help us understand what is really going on in that area without having to go back and forth between the data provided and the maps.