1865 Johnson’s Map of India: Key Takeaways
- Johnson’s Map of India, also known as Hindostan or British India, was created in 1865.
- This map provides a detailed and accurate representation of India during the British colonial period.
- It showcases the geographic boundaries, major cities, rivers, mountain ranges, and other important features of the Indian subcontinent.
- The map offers valuable insights into the historical and political context of India during that time.
History of Johnson’s Map of India
Johnson’s Map of India, created in 1865, is a significant cartographic representation of British India. It was produced during a time when the British Empire played a dominant role in the region.
At the height of the British Raj, India was divided into several provinces, presidencies, and princely states. The map beautifully depicts the geopolitical divisions of the subcontinent, showcasing the British-controlled regions and the territories ruled by Indian princes.
The map was produced by Alvin Jewett Johnson, a renowned cartographer of the 19th century. Johnson was known for his detailed and aesthetically appealing maps, which were widely used for educational and reference purposes.
Unique Insights from Johnson’s Map of India
- The map showcases the major cities of British India, including Calcutta (now Kolkata), Bombay (now Mumbai), and Madras (now Chennai). These cities served as important centers of trade, administration, and culture during the colonial period.
- It highlights the significant rivers of the subcontinent, such as the Ganges, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, Indus, and Krishna. These rivers played a crucial role in the agricultural, economic, and transportation systems of India.
- The map also reveals the majestic mountain ranges that shape the Indian landscape, such as the Himalayas, Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and Aravalli Range. These mountains not only provide natural beauty but also influence climate patterns and ecosystems.
- Johnson’s Map of India presents numerous political boundaries, illustrating the diverse princely states alongside the British-controlled territories. This reflects the complex political landscape of colonial India.
- Additionally, the map highlights the locations of ancient historical sites, such as the cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, which are renowned for their rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels.
Table: Relevant Facts about British India (1865)
| Fact | Explanation |
|---|---|
| British Presidencies | The map showcases the three British Presidencies of Bengal, Bombay, and Madras, which were the administrative divisions of British India during that time. |
| Princely States | The map reveals the numerous princely states, each ruled by a local prince or maharaja, who maintained a degree of regional autonomy under the overall British political control. |
| Railway Lines | It displays the railway lines that were gradually being constructed during the period, showcasing the early development of railways as a vital mode of transportation in India. |
| Colonial Territories | The map delineates the regions directly under British control, highlighting their extensive territorial reach across the subcontinent. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What purpose did Johnson’s Map of India serve?
Johnson’s Map of India primarily served educational and reference purposes. It provided a detailed representation of the Indian subcontinent during the British colonial period and was used by students, researchers, and geographers.
2. Who was Alvin Jewett Johnson?
Alvin Jewett Johnson was a 19th-century cartographer known for his meticulous and visually appealing maps. He produced maps for various regions, including Johnson’s Map of India in 1865.
3. What major cities are depicted on the map?
The map highlights major cities such as Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras, showcasing their significance as cultural, commercial, and administrative centers in British India.
4. What geographical features are highlighted on the map?
The map showcases significant rivers, including the Ganges, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, and Indus. It also displays prominent mountain ranges like the Himalayas, Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and Aravalli Range.
5. Which historical sites are featured on Johnson’s Map of India?
The map marks historical cities such as Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, which are renowned for their architectural wonders like the Red Fort, Taj Mahal, and Hawa Mahal.
6. What political divisions are visible on the map?
The map delineates British presidencies, princely states, and colonial territories, showcasing the political complexity of British India during that time.
7. How can Johnson’s Map of India be useful today?
Johnson’s Map of India offers insight into the historical and political context of the British colonial period. It can be used for educational purposes, research, and as a visual representation of India’s past.
External Links
For further exploration, here are some additional resources related to Johnson’s Map of India:
- 1865 Johnson’s Map of India at Geographicus
- Johnson’s New Illustrated Family Atlas at British Library
List of LSI Keywords from the article:
- Johnson’s Map of India
- Hindostan or British India
- 1865
- British Raj
- Alvin Jewett Johnson
- Geopolitical divisions
- British-controlled regions
- Princely states
- Major cities
- Rivers of India
- Mountain ranges of India
- British Presidencies
- Railway lines in India
- Colonial territories
- Delhi
- Agra
- Jaipur
References:
- Johnson’s Map of India. Geographicus Indiajohnson1865. Retrieved from https://www.geographicus.com/P/AntiqueMap/Indiajohnson1865.
- Johnson’s New Illustrated Family Atlas. British Library. Retrieved from https://www.bl.uk/collection-items/johnsons-new-illustrated-family-atlas.
