State of the World from NPR Exploring our Planet Through the History of Maps
Dec 11, 2025
Jackie Northam, an NPR foreign correspondent known for her on-the-ground reporting, takes us on a journey through the fascinating world of maps. She reveals how maps serve as windows into history and culture, transcending navigation. Listeners learn about the Osher Map Library, where students discover ancient globes and intricate maps. The discussion includes how maps reflect power dynamics and personal beliefs, showcasing diverse perspectives from different cultures. Unexpected finds like a Jain funeral shroud add layers to this exploration of mapping and history.
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Kids Explore History Through Maps
- Fourth graders toured the Osher Map Library and examined globes and maps from around the world.
- The collection gives children a tangible sense of scale, place, and history beyond GPS screens.
Maps Shape Worldview
- Maps reflect cultural orientation and perspective, like putting Europe or Australia at the map's center.
- Changing map orientation reshapes how people perceive geopolitical importance and familiarity.
Open Collections For Learning
- Make rare maps accessible to the public rather than locked away in vaults.
- Use historic maps in education to connect new generations with material culture and history.
