Here is the link to my georeferenced map: View my georeferenced map
The title of this map is “Text: 58. Sudamerika : Physisch und politisch”, created in 1940 by Emil von Sydow. The map was published by Justus Perthes as part of the Schul-Atlas series, 21st edition, with physical dimensions of 21 × 32 cm.
Did this process change your understanding of the spatial DH projects you explored earlier?
This process was more difficult than I had anticipated, but it has certainly enhanced my understanding of spatial digital humanities projects. Although I had heard of GIS and spatial analysis, I did not realize how much precision was needed to align historical data with modern maps. Over time, both measurement tools and geographic landscapes have evolved, making it challenging to achieve perfect accuracy. Achieving true precision is difficult, and this may require a certain understanding of historical humanities as well. Spatial research in digital humanities is actually quite complex. It’s not just about placing data points on a map but also exploring how maps reflect and shape historical realities. This process has made me more attentive to details such as historical background, projection choices, and map distortions.
Examine the This Map page: what formats can you access the map you rectified in?
Once the georeferencing process was completed, I found that I could access the map in various formats. For example, Map Services (XYZ) allow for the creation of TileJSON and XYZ links that can be used with GIS applications like ArcGIS or QGIS. Additionally, Image Services (IIIF) allow for the creation of IIIF Manifests, info.json files, and annotation links that can be used in web applications and digital repositories. These formats provide convenient options for subsequent analysis.
What possibilities do you see once you have a georectified map? What would be next steps?
Once you have a georectified map, the possibilities are vast. We can compare the map with other historical datasets, such as population distribution, migration patterns, or environmental changes, to see how the world has evolved over time. By comparing historical maps with modern ones, we can analyze changes in geographical boundaries, environmental features, or urban development. This offers valuable insights into past eras.
Are there problems with georeferencing that you should consider?
There are a few issues to consider in the georeferencing process. The accuracy of control points is essential; if they are incorrect, the map will be misaligned. Early maps often have distortions, issues with scale, and omissions of details. Some historical maps may lack recognizable landmarks or marked locations that can be used as reliable control points, which makes the georeferencing process more difficult. Therefore, the alignment process is actually quite complex.
What research questions or areas would this method NOT be appropriate for?
Georeferencing is not suitable for certain types of research. It is not appropriate for abstract or artistic maps that lack specific geographic details. These types of maps cannot be processed using this method. While it may work for historical research, it is not suitable for modern research that requires precise, up-to-date geographic data, such as urban planning.
