CARTOGRAPHIC CONCEPTS OF THE NORTHERN ALGONQUIANS

Abstract

The cartographic conventions of the northern Algonquian Indians (the Cree, Montagnais and Ojibwa of eastern Canada) are shared with many other cultures, and are similar to those of early European maps. Outlines are greatly simplified, irrelevant features are omitted, and culturally important features are included regardless of how small they may be. The Cree Indians' intimate knowledge of the geography of their country is reflected in their maps and toponymy, and is passed on from one person to another by maps and verbal description. The contrast between the Algonquians' system of mapping and modern cartographic practice is the cause of the Indians' apparent inability to read topographic maps, even of areas they know well.