Key Takeaways

• The 1861 Johnson Map of Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas is a historical cartographic masterpiece.
• It offers valuable insights into the geographical layout of these three Southern states during that time.
• Evidence of significant historical events can be traced through this map’s geographic depiction.
• The map is a remarkable resource for researchers, historians, and enthusiasts studying this era.

History

The 1861 Johnson Map of Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas, officially known as Geographicus Aklamij62, was
created by Alvin Jewett Johnson, a renowned cartographer of the 19th century. This particular map focuses on
the Southern region of the United States during a crucial period in history.

During the 1860s, the United States was in the midst of political and social turmoil, leading to the Civil War
between the Northern and Southern states. Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas played significant roles in this
conflict, and the Johnson Map provides an in-depth portrayal of their geography during that time.

Alvin Jewett Johnson meticulously crafted this detailed map, using data from previous cartographers and
explorers. It showcases rivers, mountains, cities, towns, and other geographic features, providing a comprehensive
understanding of the region’s layout.

Unique Insights

Through a careful examination of the Johnson Map, several unique insights about the region can be observed:

• The Mississippi River prominently flows through all three states, functioning as a vital trade route for
  agricultural products.
• New Orleans, situated in Louisiana, stands out as a significant port city, serving as a gateway for imports
  and exports.
• Key transportation routes, such as railroads, are highlighted, indicating the infrastructure of the time.
• Several Native American reservations are marked, indicating the presence of indigenous communities.
• The map shows the division of territories and the states that would later join the Confederacy.

Table – Relevant Facts

FAQ

1. Who created the Johnson Map of Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas?

The map was created by Alvin Jewett Johnson, a renowned cartographer of the 19th century.

2. What is the significance of the Johnson Map?

The map offers valuable insights into the geographical layout of these three Southern states during the 1860s,
a period marked by the Civil War and significant historical events.

3. What information does the Johnson Map provide?

The map showcases rivers, mountains, cities, towns, transportation routes, and other geographic features,
providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s layout during that time.

4. Why is the Mississippi River important?

The Mississippi River served as a vital trade route for agricultural products and played a significant role in the
economic development of these states.

5. Which city stands out on the Johnson Map?

New Orleans, situated in Louisiana, stands out as a significant port city, serving as a gateway for imports and
exports.

6. Does the map indicate Native American presence?

Yes, the Johnson Map marks several Native American reservations, highlighting the presence of indigenous
communities in the region.

7. What were some notable events during that time?

Some significant events include Mississippi seceding from the Union, the commencement of the Civil War, the
Emancipation Proclamation, and the end of the Civil War with the surrender of the Confederacy.

References

• Geographicus Site – 1861 Johnson Map
• Civil War Trust – Alvin Johnson

LSI Keywords

• 1861 Johnson Map
• Map of Mississippi Louisiana Arkansas
• Geographicus Aklamij62
• Alvin Jewett Johnson
• Civil War
• Mississippi River
• New Orleans
• Northern and Southern states
• Confederacy
• 19th-century cartography