Maps by Gerard Mercator, 16th century cartographer

Gerard Mercator (1512-1594) was a Flemish cartographer, geographer, and mathematician who is best known for his pioneering work in the field of cartography. He is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of cartography and is particularly famous for his creation of the first modern atlas, which was published in 1595, a year after his death.

Mercator was born in Rupelmonde, Flanders (now part of Belgium), in 1512. He was educated at a local school, and then went on to study mathematics, geography, and cartography at the University of Leuven. He also studied under Gemma Frisius, a prominent mathematician and cartographer of the time.

In 1537, Mercator began working as a cartographer, and over the next few years, he produced a number of maps and atlases for clients throughout Europe. He became known for his innovative approach to map-making, which involved using a more... new projection method that allowed for more accurate representation of the earth's surface.

In the mid-1550s, Mercator moved to Duisburg, in present-day Germany, where he established a workshop and continued to produce maps and atlases. He also taught mathematics and cartography at the local university. In 1569, he published his most famous work, the "Mercator Projection," a world map that revolutionized the field of cartography by allowing for accurate navigation at sea.

In addition to his work as a cartographer, Mercator was also involved in other areas of science and philosophy. He was a member of the Royal Society of London, and he corresponded with many of the leading scientists and intellectuals of his day. He was particularly interested in theology, and he wrote extensively on biblical geography and history.

Mercator died in Duisburg in 1594, at the age of 82. His legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of cartography continues to this day, and his innovative techniques and methods are still studied and used by cartographers around the world. less...