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United States by George Philip & Son, engraved by J. Bartholomew Junr. of Edinburgh and published in London and Liverpool around 1855, provides an insightful cartographic representation of the nation during a significant phase of its territorial evolution. In this map, the vast expanse of Minnesota Territory notably encompasses the lands west of the Red River, reflecting a yet-to-be-defined western boundary and showcasing a territory significantly larger than the present-day state of Minnesota.
The mid-19th century was a period of rapid change and exploration in the United States. The concept of Manifest Destiny was in full swing, promoting the belief in the nation's expansion from coast to coast. The Oregon Trail and the California Gold Rush were drawing thousands westward, and territories were regularly being redefined in anticipation of statehood. The large Minnesota Territory as depicted on this map, which includes regions that would later become part of the Dakotas, stands testament to these shifting boundaries and the evolving understanding of the nation's geography.
J. Bartholomew Junr.'s engraving embodies the cartographic precision of the period, capturing the intricate topography and geopolitical divisions of the time. Bartholomew, hailing from a renowned line of Scottish cartographers, demonstrated exceptional skill in representing the vast and varied landscapes of the United States. His attention to detail ensures the map's relevance both as a geographical reference and as an artifact capturing a moment in American history.
The inclusion of the extended Minnesota Territory serves as a fascinating focal point. The delineation of this vast tract west of the Red River reminds us of the fluidity of boundaries during this period. It encapsulates the push and pull of exploration, settlement, and political negotiation, factors that would shape the nation's destiny and influence its future cartographic depictions.
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