Cartography of Latin America

Cartography of Latin America involved map-making by European empires and Indigenous groups. The Spanish and Portuguese empires mapped explored and settled realms, while also speculating on terra incognita. Indigenous groups created maps of their territories, some predating European arrival. Maps for Spain projected its sense of order, religion, and justice, or policía, in its new colonies. Maps could serve as propaganda, asserting sovereignty even when unwarranted.