World map in Mercator projection by van Keulen, about 1720. On this projection, all straight lines are true bearings. This results in great size distortion toward the poles, which cannot be shown. Modern Maps Maps became increasingly accurate and factual during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries with the application of scientific methods. Many countries undertook national mapping programs.
Modern cartography is based on a combination of ground observations and remote sensing.
A high level of geographic accuracy is demonstrated along with marginal illustrations that enhance the map. Reproduction of original map from the Geodetical Institute of Denmark. GIS represents a major shift in the cartography paradigm. For GIS, the database, analysis, and display are physically and conceptually separate aspects of handling geographic data. Field measurements are subject to errors of accuracy and precision.