"Portrait of America 1939",

This visually intricate map of the United States was drawn by Erik Nitsche for Life Magazine. Instead of showing political boundaries, the map presents a unified, interconnected, and prosperous country on the cusp of World War II. Manufacturing in the Northeast and Midwest, oil production in Texas and California, farmlands in the Plains, and vast forests in the Pacific Northwest convey a strong and diversified economy. Leisure is not completely forgotten, however, with beach umbrellas along the Florida coastline, images of the Indianapolis Speedway and Kentucky Derby, and individuals skiing and swimming out west. Printed on two separate sheets. Accompanied by 18 pages of unrelated text featuring two additional U.S. maps including America: How It Grew 1492-1907 (19.5 x 12.0") and The Official Map of the United States of America - 1939 (17.8 x 13.1").

References: PJ Mode Collection #8548.

Condition: A

Clean and colorful with small staple holes along the centerfold as issued. The map is printed on two separate sheets.