Map & Geography Facts

What happened this week in maps?!? There is so much history around the world that sometimes it is hard to keep up. We dive into a fun fact every week from all around the world to show just how amazing people are! Join us in our exploration and learn something new along the way. 

Flights of Fancy

On this week in 1496 Leonardo da Vinci tested a flying machine…It “flew” straight down.

FIRST WEEK OF JANUARY
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Sign of The Times


On this week in 1878 the US Senate proposed female suffrage. But the 19th amendment, which codifies the right to vote regardless of sex, didnt pass until 1920.

SECOND WEEK OF JANUARY
Protest woman with assertive expression leading a diverse group holding protest signs, emphasizing social activism and community engagement in protest movements.

Lima, Land-O-Llama

On this week in 1535 Francisco Pizarro founded the city of Lima in Peru.

THIRD WEEK OF JANUARY
Colorful llama dressed in traditional Peruvian attire, outdoors with sunlight filtering through trees, showcasing cultural Alpaca fashion and rural landscape.

Okay … Letter Rip!


On this week in 1673 marked the beginning of Postal service between New York & Boston.

FOURTH WEEK OF JANUARY
Postage mailbox receiving mail in a suburban neighborhood.

Shadowy Characters!

On this week in 1887 the first Groundhog’s Day was observed at Gobbler’s Knob, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

FIRST WEEK OF FEBRUARY
A close-up of a wild beaver emerging from a burrow in the snow with a muddy nose, surrounded by wintery environment including logs and dried twigs.

Unleash the Astronaut!

On this week in 1984 American astronaut Bruce McCandless makes 1st untethered space walk.

SECOND WEEK OF FEBRUARY
Astronaut floating outside the International Space Station with Earth and stars in the background, captured through the station's window. Perfect for space exploration, astronaut imagery, and space station visuals.

I Bearly Believe It


On this week in 1903 the 1st Teddy Bear was introduced in America. It was made by Morris & Rose Michtom.

THIRD WEEK OF FEBRUARY
Cute plush teddy bear surrounded by wrapped Christmas gifts, decorated with greenery and ornaments, with a blurred Christmas tree in the background. Perfect holiday gift and Christmas decoration scene.

Financially Insecure

On this week in 2006 At least six people staged Britain’s biggest robbery ever, stealing £53m (about $92.5 million) from a Securitas depot in Tonbridge, Kent.

FOURTH WEEK OF FEBRUARY
Stacks of hundred-dollar bills flying around inside a large, secure bank vault with two young adults sitting on the floor, dressed in black, surrounded by money, bags, and security gear.

Arresting Witch Face


On this week in 1692 Sarah Goode, Sarah Osborne, & Tituba arrested for witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts

FIRST WEEK OF MARCH
Gothic fashion women with curly hair, dark makeup, and accessories, seated at a vintage rustic table decorated with candles, in a moody, artistic atmosphere.

On this week in 1819 Secretary of State, John Quincy Adams, signed the Adams – Onis Treaty. Which ceded Florida to the United States in exchange for the US settling 5 million dollars worth of outstanding legal claims against the Spanish Crown.

FIRST WEEK OF MARCH
Colorful Florida map sticker featuring palm trees, a dolphin, and tropical scenery, ideal for travel and map enthusiasts. Perfect for decorating notebooks, laptops, or travel gear with Florida-themed designs.

Bombshells in Bikini

On this week in 1946 Bikini Atoll islanders are evacuated by the US government to make way for a nuclear testing site.

SECOND WEEK OF MARCH
Bright pink and pastel striped bikini swimsuit, colorful beach towel, straw sunhat, sunglasses, and smartphone arranged on a turquoise background for summer vacation accessories.

This week in 1930 Mahatma Gandhi and his followers begin a 200 mile march to the salt beds of Jalalpur.

SECOND WEEK OF MARCH
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Emerald City?


On this week in 1962 marked the first time that the Chicago River was dyed green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day

THIRD WEEK OF MARCH
Aerial view of Chicago River with emerald green water, surrounded by tall skyscrapers, including Marina City towers, and a bustling cityscape with boats and pedestrians on a sunny day.

The first St. Patrick’s Day parade took place not in Ireland but in America. Records show that a St. Patrick’s Day parade was held on March 17, 1601 in a Spanish colony in what is now St. Augustine, Florida.

THIRD WEEK OF MARCH
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Colorful outdoor fountain park with green dye, decorative sculptures, and a crowd of people enjoying a festive event. Perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and photo opportunities.

We Bet You Didn’t Know

On this week in 1931 Nevada legalized gambling!

FOURTH WEEK OF MARCH
Casino poker chips and a martini glass on a gambling table with colorful background, emphasizing casino, poker, gambling, and nightlife themes.

On this week in 1784 Bangkok was abuzz as the Emerald Buddha was moved into its temple, Wat Phra Kaew, where it resides to this day.

FOURTH WEEK OF MARCH
Green jade Buddha statue with intricate gold detailing and vibrant temple decor, representing Asian art and religious heritage.

The Branches of Government


On this week in 1912 the 1st Japanese cherry blossom trees were planted in Washington, D.C.

FIFTH WEEK OF MARCH
Blooming cherry blossoms framing the Washington Monument under a bright blue sky, representing scenic travel destinations and outdoor exploration.

Speed Trap

On this day in 1988 Eddie Hill became the world’s first driver to cover the quarter mile in under 5 seconds.

FIRST WEEK OF APRIL
Police car with flashing lights on the road, emergency response vehicle in a city traffic scene.

On this week a few years ago in 240 BC the first perihelion passage of Halley’s Comet was recorded. But back then I think it was just called “ Angry Sky Monster”

FIRST WEEK OF APRIL
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Bright comet streaking across a star-filled night sky, showcasing celestial navigation and astronomy maps. Perfect for stargazing enthusiasts, space exploration, and navigation tools.

Caped Crusaders


On this week in 1811 the 1st US pacific coast colonists arrived at Washington Territory’s Cape Disappointment.

SECOND WEEK OF APRIL
Colorful children dressed as superheroes running in a park, representing outdoor fun and adventure, perfect for maps and travel guides.

On this week in 1872 the Jesse James Gang robbed a bank in Columbia, Kentucky. ​ (1 person killed /$1,500 stolen)

SECOND WEEK OF APRIL
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French flag on a sailboat on the open sea during late afternoon, illustrating maritime navigation, travel, and map exploration. Ideal for travel maps, nautical charts, and maritime navigation tools.

The United States’ First Home Office?

On this week in 1782 John Adams secured the Dutch Republic’s recognition of the United States as an independent government, and a house he purchased in The Hague, Netherlands became the first American embassy.

THIRD WEEK OF APRIL
Desktop computer with a man using a smartphone in an office setting, modern workspace, digital technology, work from home setup, productivity tools, casual business environment, The Map Shop, SEO keywords.

On this week in 1872 the Jesse James Gang robbed a bank in Columbia, Kentucky. ​ (1 person killed /$1,500 stolen)

THIRD WEEK OF APRIL
$-piggy-bank-with-dollar-bills-over-white-background -- A cute ceramic piggy bank with orange accents sitting on top of a stack of US dollar bills, symbolizing savings and financial growth.

Ich Bin Ein Berliner?


On this week in 1990 West & East Germany agreed to merge currency & economies.

___
 
FOURTH WEEK OF APRIL
Cold beer mugs clinking in a toast at a social gathering or pub. Refreshing drinks, beer glasses, friends enjoying a night out, hospitality, and bar scene. Perfect for promoting beer brands or pub ambiance.

This week in 1906 an earthquake, measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale, shook the town of San Francisco. The quake lasted for less than one minute, but almost 80% of the city was toppled.

FOURTH WEEK OF APRIL
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Blue cocktails served in martini glasses with colorful mini umbrellas and maraschino cherries, perfect for tropical parties and summer celebrations.

On this week in 1990 NASA launched the Hubble Space Telescope into low earth orbit.

FIFTH WEEK OF APRIL
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Model rocket being held by a boy, ready for launch, showcasing educational space exploration toys at The Map Shop, ideal for science enthusiasts and young space explorers.

mapo de facto


On this week in the 1940 people in the United States started celebrating “Cinco De Mayo” as a part of the Chicano movement. In the 1980’s beer companies capitalized on the celebratory nature of the day and began promoting the day.

Eventually Cinco De Mayo evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, first in areas with large Mexican-American populations.

Cinco De Mayo isn’t really celebrated in Mexico… Cinco De Mapo, however, is fast becoming one of Mexico’s #1 map based holidays.

FIRST WEEK OF MAY
Flag of Mexico being held by a young boy at the beach, symbolizing Mexican culture and pride. Ideal for travel, geography, and cultural content related to Mexico.

This week in 1862 Mexican troops successfully repelled French soldiers at the Battle of Puebla. It was one of the few Mexican military victories during France’s short-lived colonization of Mexico.

FIRST WEEK OF MAY
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Colorful Mexican sombrero with intricate embroidery, sequins, and vibrant red, green, white, and silver details, displayed indoors. Perfect for Mexican culture and traditional craft collections.

get vertically flipped


On this week in 1976 The Revolution, the first steel roller coaster with a vertical flip, opened at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California.

SECOND WEEK OF MAY
Child doing acrobatics on trampoline outdoors, happy kid jumping in backyard, spring outdoor activities, active play for children, fun recreational sports, summer family entertainment, farm life, outdoor adventure, childhood fun, kids play equipment, active outdoor recreation, children's fitness, playful summer activity, outdoor sports gear, youth recreation.

On this week in 1893, Henri Desgrange, cyclist and founder of the Tour-de-France established the first world record for bicycle speed when he reached 21.95 miles per hour.

SECOND WEEK OF MAY
Brightly colored children's tricycle with a rocket-shaped backpack, orange helmet, and sunglasses, ideal for outdoor play and adventure.

Been Around & Around


On this week in 1620 the 1st recorded sighting of a merry-go-round occurred at a fair in Philippopolis, Turkey.

THIRD WEEK OF MAY
Colorful children playing on a merry-go-round at the playground.

This week in 1980 Mount St. Helens erupted blowing its top- leaving a massive crater; its summit is now some 1300 feet (400 meters) lower than before the eruption.

THIRD WEEK OF MAY
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Volcano mountain with colorful rocky slopes, illuminated by sunset, showcasing geological formations and volcanic terrain in a scenic landscape.

All Tapped Out


On this week in 1844 Samuel Morse tapped out “What hath God Wrought” in the world’s first telegraph message: 

.– …. .- – / …. .- – …. / –. — -.. / .– .-. — ..- –. …. –

FOURTH WEEK OF MAY
Wireless metal detector with headphones lying on mossy ground in a forest.

On this week in 1937 over 200,000 people celebrated the grand opening of the Golden Gate Bridge by crossing it on foot or on roller skates. Cars had to wait ‘til the next day.

FOURTH WEEK OF MAY
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Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco with scenic hills and blue sky, a popular landmark for maps and navigation, ideal for travel maps, city guides, and geographic references.

Cheers to #15!


On this week in 1792 Kentucky split from Virginia and was admitted to the Union as the 15th US state

FIRST WEEK OF JUNE
Fresh mint tea with ice cubes served in a glass on a metal tray, garnished with mint leaves and surrounded by fresh mint sprigs and crushed cookies for a refreshing herbal beverage.

On this week in 1859: Big Ben rang out over the Houses of Parliament for the first time. This was also the week Queen Elizabeth II was formally crowned as the Queen of England in 1953.

FIRST WEEK OF JUNE
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Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, London, UK - iconic landmarks, European architecture, cityscape, historic sites, travel destinations, the map shop, online map store, navigation, London sightseeing, British landmarks, world travel.

A Spainful Decision


During this week in 1494 Spain and Portugal signed the Treaty of Tordesillas, an agreement that divided the new world along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde islands. Portugal laid claim to land east of the line and Spain to the west.

SECOND WEEK OF JUNE
Detailed world map highlighting the 1494 Treaty of Tordesillas and colonial explorers, perfect for Caribbean and South American navigation, mapping, and geographical history research.

On this week in 1992, while at the Earth Summit, Canada’s International Centre for Ocean Development and the Ocean Institute of Canada proposed that June 8th be recognized as World Ocean Day – “World Oceans Day” was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2008. The international day strives to foster public interest in the protection of the ocean and the sustainable management of its resources

SECOND WEEK OF JUNE
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Vivid ocean wave splash with distant islands and cloudy sky, showcasing maritime scenery and water activity, ideal for travel, navigation, and oceanographic themes.

Yu-Kon Visit There


During this week in 1898 the Yukon Territory of Canada was established, and Dawson was chosen as its capital.

THIRD WEEK OF JUNE
Vast mountain lake landscape with lush green forests, rolling hills, and a dramatic sky, showcasing outdoor adventure and travel destinations.

On this week in 1777 The Continental Congress approved the Stars and Stripes as the first national flag of the United States, The official description was as follows: “The flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field representing a new constellation.” The layout of the stars, however, was left undefined, and many patterns were used by flag makers.

THIRD WEEK OF JUNE
Red, white, and blue American flags on toothpick sticks with patriotic star confetti on a brown background. Perfect for Fourth of July celebrations, patriotic events, or American holidays.

Full of Hot Air


During this week in 1633 Galileo Galilei, under threat of execution, recanted his “heretical” position that the Earth orbited the Sun – a position that was at odds with the catholic church’s teachings (The Vatican apologized in Oct 1992 for how it handled this particular situation). 

FOURTH WEEK OF JUNE
Earth from space, highlighting continents and oceans with stars in the background.

On this week in 2006 Pluto’s newly discovered moons are officially named Nix and Hydra.

FOURTH WEEK OF JUNE
Moon against the starry night sky, showcasing detailed lunar surface features and a backdrop of the Milky Way galaxy. Perfect for astronomy, space exploration, and planetary maps.

Catsup To This Week’s Fact


During this week in 1820 the tomato was “proven” to be non-poisonous when Colonel Robert Gibbon ate one on the steps of a courthouse in Salem, New Jersey.

FIFTH WEEK OF JUNE
Vibrant ripe tomato on the vine, with lush green leaves in the background, showcasing fresh garden produce ideal for home gardening and healthy eating.

Make Potato Legal!


During this week in 1890 Idaho was admitted as
43rd US state in the Union.

FIRST WEEK OF JULY
Yellow potatoes being peeled with a blue vegetable peeler on a white background.

On this week in 1919 The Treaty of Versailles, ending WWI and establishing the League of Nations, was signed in France

FIRST WEEK OF JULY
Elegant French palace with manicured gardens and classic architecture, showcasing historic and scenic views of the Palace of Versailles in France.

Start Making Cents


During this week in 1933 Congress passed the first
minimum wage law (33 cents per hour).

SECOND WEEK OF JULY
4. Hand holding scattered Euro coins on a white background, symbolizing currency, savings, or travel budgeting concepts.

Buck, Clam, Bill, Note, Ducket, Benjamin …

On this week in 1785 US Congress unanimously resolved to name US currency the “dollar” and adopted decimal coinage

SECOND WEEK OF JULY
Chic small dog wearing pink heart-shaped sunglasses, brown hoodie, and gold chain with dollar sign pendant for stylish pet accessories and fashion.

On this week in 1772, Captain James Cook began his 2nd voyage aboard the Resolution to the South Seas in search of “Terra Australis” (Latin: “Southern Land”)

THIRD WEEK OF JULY
Vivid ocean view from a boat with a mountainous coastline in the background, featuring sailing equipment and a shark fin emerging from the water. Perfect for nautical, maritime, or adventure travel themes.

I Can See My House From Here!

 On this week in 1969 the Apollo 11 lunar module carrying Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the surface of the Moon; Aldrin and Armstrong walked on the moon- Michael Collins remained in orbit.

FOURTH WEEK OF JULY
SHOW MOON MAPS
Astronaut exploring alien planet with rocky terrain and reddish sky, science fiction landscape.

Reminder to Water Your Plants

On this week in 1880 the first commercial hydroelectric power plant in the world began generating electricity at the Wolverine Chair Factory in Grand Rapids, Michigan  

FIFTH WEEK OF JULY
Powerful hydroelectric dam with rushing water, surrounded by lush greenery and forest, showcasing water resource management and renewable energy production.

On this week in 1492, Christopher Columbus sets sail on his first voyage with three ships, Santa María, Pinta, and Niña from Palos de la Frontera, Spain in search of the “Indies”.  

FIRST WEEK OF AUGUST
A glass bottle on a pebble beach with a miniature sailboat inside, illuminated by a sunset over the ocean.

On this week in 1965 Singapore separated from the Federation of Malaysia and gained its independence.

SECOND WEEK OF AUGUST
Modern Singapore Marina Bay skyline with ArtScience Museum at dusk showcasing iconic cityscape and vibrant skyline.

In this week in 1248 Construction of the new Cologne Cathedral began with the laying of the foundation stone by Archbishop Konrad von Hochstaden – They finished it a few years later -(completed 1880)

THIRD WEEK OF AUGUST
Majestic Gothic cathedral illuminated at night in Cologne, Germany, showcasing stunning detailed architecture and iconic spires, perfect for travel and historical map enthusiasts.

SIZE MATTERS!

On this week in 2006 : The International Astronomical Union defined the term “planet” for the first time and demoted Pluto to the status of a “dwarf planet.” According to the new definition, there are currently eight planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) and four dwarf planets (Ceres, Pluto, Makemake and Eris) now known in our solar system.

FOURTH WEEK OF AUGUST
Must be a map or navigation related image, but based on visual, here's the SEO info:.

Houston – We Have a City!

On this week in 1836 The city that we now call Houston was founded by Augustus Chapman Allen and his brother John Kirby Allen.

FIRST WEEK OF SEPTEMBER
Black and white speckled Texas longhorn cattle grazing in a grassy valley with rolling hills and green pastures under a partly cloudy sky.

It’s Wicked Awesome

On this week in 1630 Puritans founded the city of Boston!

SECOND WEEK OF SEPTEMBER
City skyline with historic and modern buildings, featuring the Old State House and high-rise office towers in Boston, Massachusetts during sunset.

Spainful Break-Up

On this week in 1821: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras & Nicaragua declare their independence ​from the Spanish Empire via the Act of Independence of Central America

THIRD WEEK OF SEPTEMBER
Broken heart-shaped paper on rustic white wooden surface, symbolizing heartbreak or emotional pain. Suitable for themes related to love loss, emotional struggles, or relationship issues.

This Totally Sucks

On this week in 1876​ Melville Bissell of Grand Rapids, Michigan patented the 1st carpet sweeper. His cat was not happy about it

FOURTH WEEK OF SEPTEMBER
Robot vacuum cleaner near cat on tiled floor, smart home cleaning device, pet-friendly robot vacuum for home automation and efficient cleaning, The Map Shop.

Choo Choo Choo on This Fact!

On this week in 1825 George Stephenson’s “Locomotion No. 1” was the 1st steam locomotive to carry passengers on a public rail line. This first commute took place on the Stockton & Darlington Railway in England

FIFTH WEEK OF SEPTEMBER
Wooden toy train with colorful buildings and trees, ideal for children’s maps, educational play, and travel-themed décor. Perfect for fostering imagination and learning geography.

A Bone To Pick With You

On this week in 1915 the Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado & Utah was established.

FIRST WEEK OF OCTOBER
Excavating archeological site with hand tools, uncovering ancient artifacts in the soil, illustrating history, archaeology, and excavation processes.

This Fact is “On Point”

On this week in 1581 the 1st staged ballet, “Ballet Comique de la Reine”, was performed in Paris at the Hôtel de Bourbon, adjacent to the Louvre Palace

SECOND WEEK OF OCTOBER
Elegant ballerina stretching in an industrial-style dance studio with vintage leather armchair and large window.

..- ..-. — —-. .—- .—-

On this week in 1861 the First US transcontinental telegram was sent from San Francisco to Washington, D.C.

THIRD WEEK OF OCTOBER
Vintage telegraph key used for Morse code communication, placed on a wooden surface. Perfect for historical, communication, and vintage technology enthusiasts.

Witch Magic is Best?

On this week in 1856 French Magician Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin performed for Algerian Marabouts in Algeria to convince them that French magic is the stronger than theirs

FOURTH WEEK OF OCTOBER
Ancient spellbook with glowing candles and mysterious smoke, conjuring magical rituals or potion brewing, perfect for fantasy maps and mystical adventure themes.

Might As Well Take Two!


On this week in 1889 North Dakota became the 39th & South Dakota became the 40th state in the United States.

FIRST WEEK OF NOVEMBER
Delicious carnival-style donuts with colorful icing and sprinkles, perfect for desserts and treats from The Map Shop.

SHHH! I’m Reading the MapDrop!

On this week in 1731 Benjamin Franklin opened the first library in the North American colonies. Its name-The Library Company of Philadelphia.

SECOND WEEK OF NOVEMBER
Delivering dog training instruction, woman with finger on lips and attentive puppy, indoor training session, pet obedience, positive reinforcement, young woman and Belgian Malinois dog, focused pet care, The Map Shop.

Now This Ring You Have To See!


On this week in 1980 US spacecraft Voyager 1 sent back the 1st close-up pictures of Saturn during its planetary fly-by.

THIRD WEEK OF NOVEMBER
Elegant diamond engagement rings with sparkling gemstones, showcasing luxury jewelry from The Map Shop, perfect for special occasions and wedding celebrations.

“First in Flight”…12th in Statehood!

On this week in 1789 North Carolina, home of the Map Shop, ratified the constitution and became 12th US state.

FOURTH WEEK OF NOVEMBER
Vibrant autumn landscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains with colorful fall foliage, rolling hills, and a warm sunset sky, ideal for travel, outdoor exploration, or scenic map viewing.

Fill ‘Er Up


On this week in 1913 Gulf Refining Company opened the nation’s first drive-in service station at the corner of Baum Boulevard and St. Clair Street in Pittsburgh.

FIRST WEEK OF DECEMBER
Fuel nozzle inserted into a car's fuel tank at a gas station, close-up shot.

It’s History Bro

On this week in 1776 the First US fraternity, Phi Beta Kappa, was formed at William & Mary College.

SECOND WEEK OF DECEMBER
Spilled red plastic cups on a wooden table with friends playing beer pong in a lively bar setting.

Historical Clippings


On this week in 1928 Clip-on tie designed … We’re Knot kidding!

THIRD WEEK OF DECEMBER
Knots man tying child's striped necktie, father helping son with outfit, father and son dressing up, family bonding, at home or in a classroom, playful, joyful moment.

Santa Was First!

On this week in 1909 University of Copenhagen rejected American Explorer Frederick A Cook’s claim that he was 1st to the North Pole.

FOURTH WEEK OF DECEMBER
Christmas children holding snow globe with holiday scene, wearing Santa hats and cozy sweaters, celebrating festive season indoors with Christmas decorations and tree.

What Are The Odds?


On this week in 1946 The Flamingo Hotel & Casino, the first “modern style” casino officially opened in Las Vegas, NV.

FIFTH WEEK OF DECEMBER
Betting roulette table with colorful chips and a classic wooden wheel at The Map Shop casino.