To comment an historical map we will keep the following steps:

1. Looking and preparation

2. Map Classification
3. Map Analysis
4. Historical context
5. Conclusion
1. Looking and preparation
You have to look at the map carefully. We must pay attention to the key of the map. We must look at the
different colours, lines, arrows or other symbols.
2. Map Classification
a) Title:
If it has not a title, we must give it one.
b) Spatial-temporal circumstances (dating)
- The date, if it is quoted or can be inferred from the content.
- The space that the map is showing.
c) Type of map:
- Situation map: it shows an event in a given date (e.g. Europe in 1815).
- Evolution map: it shows the situation in different stages (e.g. the unification of Italy).

3. Map Analysis
- Explain the content of the map, describing all its elements: colours, signs, symbols of the key.
- Explain the historical events reflected on the map.
4. Historical context
- Make a comment relating the text with the historical context. Mention always the text. You can start
explaining the situation that led to the current map. Dont use the map as a pretext, that is, to copy
information from the book.
4. Conclusion
- Make a summary, and assessment about the importance of the map and its historical significance.
Explain how this map will change in the future.