Map of Savannah: http://www.libs.uga.edu/darchive/hargrett/maps/1734g6.jpg
1. The map of Savannah was meant for the trustees who had invested money in the settlement of Georgia. The map is not only painstakingly detailed but also includes a legend to describe some of the various buildings and docks. The picture is obviously biased to keep funding coming from England. Also the map shows plans for expansion and all the colonists doing their part to strengthen Savannah’s fortifications while completely surrounded by untamed wilderness.
2. This map depicts that there is not a single Indian or Spanish person at or near the settlement; although it is highly unlikely that that was the norm. Also the map shows the colony as thriving although it was originally chartered as a colony primarily for those supposed to be in debtor’s prison (so not everyone was thrilled to be there). The values this map promotes is hard work and strength. English ships patrol the harbor while men build the camp and explore in order to prepare for expansion and adventure.
3. This map portrays Savannah as a strong English settlement not much different from England itself. As Babb mentions in “Crafting Whiteness in Early America,” Within is a country that may have the prerogative over the most pleasant places of Europe, Asia, Africa, or America, for large and pleasant navigable rivers, heaven and earth never agreed better to frame a place for mans habitation being of our constitutions, were it fully manured and inhabited by industrious people.” Savannah appears surrounded by untapped woods and wildlife for the taking by the English.
I looked a map similar to this of the Savannah region. I agree with you that this particular map shows only English power and no acknowledgment of Native Americans or the Spanish, but I find it interesting that there was a Native American reference in the map of Savannah that I looked at. It just goes to show the different aspects that different views find important!
ReplyDeleteMatt, your blogs are top of the line man. Great analysis of the detail in the map. I can definitely see England was planning on taking all of the land for themselves.
ReplyDeleteOf course a very good post! Haha. But in all seriousness, it really is. I like that you anlyzed the details of the map, and there are so many! I find it quite sad though, that the English didn't acknowledge the Spanish or Native Amvericans, but at that time, that was pretty normal, I guess.
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