LITHUANIA MINOR AND PRUSSIA ON THE OLD MAPS (1806–2008)

Viktoras Lukoševičius

doi:10.3846/20296991.2013.806245

Abstract

While continuing researches on ancient cartography (Lukoševičius 2013) the publication is aimed at viewing maps of Lithuania Minor and Prussia in the perspective of historical events, with a special emphasis on most important historical events as well as cartography development moments. The method used is analysis of different maps, by different authors, found in cartographical archives. The article presents the authors and designers 48 maps of Lithuania Minor and Prussia and discusses map characteristics. It also provides links that are helpful for the readers interested in a more detailed studies of specific maps. Summarizing research results the authors conclude that ancient maps where Lithuania Minor is marked are true historical witnesses helping to understand long and complicated formation process of Lithuania Minor and the state of Lithuania; however the analysis alone is insufficient to fully reveal its historic concept.

Highlights

When Napoleon’s Russian campaign ended in disaster 1812 Prussia joined France’s enemies again and its status as great power was restored at the Congress of Vienna
An encouraging factor to prepare this publication was the respect towards the history of Lithuania Minor and its cultural heritage, bearing a special historical value and the hope that this everlasting Baltic land will never be forgotten
The separated culture of Lithuania Minor had a great impact on the development of the nation of Lithuania, so Lithuania does feel the moral obligation to actively take part in developing the future of Lithuania Minor

Summary

Caricature and comic maps of Prussia

The original hand-painted map, from which this replica was made, was created by the second generation one of America’s finest mapmaking families, Samuel Mitchell, Jr. of Philadelphia. This map was the one of the first created under son’s watch, so he spared no expense to create one of the finest maps ever made. German territory was made up of 27 constituent states. The Kingdom of Prussia was the largest of the constituent states, covering some 60% of the territory of the German Empire (Figs 18 and 19).

Ethnic and Linguistic maps of Lithuania Minor

Old Lithuania Minor on the maps nowdays cartographers

Conclusions

Findings

Moskva