Prompted by a desire to share their scientific interests, ideas, and findings, the 33 founders of the National Geographic Society first convened in Washington, DC on January 13, 1888 to create “a society for the increase and diffusion of geographic knowledge.” Today, the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet.
In 2013, National Geographic is celebrating its 125th anniversary.
Throughout its history, the National Geographic Society has encouraged conservation and raised public awareness of the importance of natural places, the plants and wildlife that inhabit them and the environmental problems that threaten them.
Originally the Society did this through exploration, research, photography and the publication of their now-iconic journal, National Geographic. With early support from the likes of Alexander Graham Bell and the magazine’s first full-time editor, Gilbert H. Grosvenor, National Geographic has flourished as one of the world’s top names in geography, archaeology, natural science, ecology, world culture and history.
Today, National Geographic reflects the world around us through its magazines, television programs, films, music and radio, books, DVDs, exhibitions, live events, school publishing programs, interactive media and merchandise. The magazine is read by more than 60 million people each month, and the National Geographic Channel reaches 440 million households in 171 countries in 38 languages. Their digital media receives more than 20 million visitors a month. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy.
National Geographic has also become one of the world’s most recognisable map brands. Grosvenor is credited with saying,
“A map is the greatest of all epic poems. Its lines and colours show the realization of great dreams.”
This statement has inspired the world of National Geographic’s cartographers for nearly a century and accurately summarises the way in which maps can capture the imagination. Maps can inspire real or fantastic travel plans, enhance one’s understanding of international events or help bring history to life.
Founded in 1915 as the Map Department of the National Geographic Society, National Geographic Maps is responsible for illustrating the world through the art and science of mapmaking. Today, National Geographic Maps continues this mission by creating the world’s greatest wall maps, outdoor recreation maps, travel maps, atlases and globes. Their ongoing legacy continues to inspire people to care about the world.
In a celebration of National Geographic’s 125th Anniversary, Stanfords is selling selected National Geographic Maps on a special offer:
Buy One, Get One Half Price from 5 August until 5 September 2013.
Visit us in store or head over to the National Geographic Maps’ page for featured products and more information.