Pictorial map of South America with illustrated vignettes of important people, places, and historical events. The grand title cartouche is surrounded by images of important buildings and natural wonders, as well as a portrait of Simon Bolivar above the optimistic quote - "We shall not see, nor the generation which follows us, the triumph of the America we are building now."



As suggested by the map's title, Ernest Dudley Chase was inspired to draw this map by Franklin Delano Roosevelt's "Good Neighbor Policy" which began a period of warming relations between the United States and the South American nations. Published during WWII, this map symbolizes the optimism of the Pan-American movement and suggests a growing interest in South America by the average U.S. citizen.



Laid down on archival linen. Signed in pencil by the author. Printed colour. (SL) [SAM3351]



Ernest Dudley Chase



Ernest Dudley Chase (1878-1966), born in Lowell, Massachusetts, is one of the best known and prolific pictorial mapmakers of the 20th century. He created more than 50 different maps in his very distinctive style. A perfectionist, he is noted for his attention to fine details and for his illustrated vignettes. The maps frequently dealt humorously with serious subjects while always reflecting his passionate patriotism and optimism.



Many of his maps focus on his native New England, but he also designed maps of the world, Europe, North and South America, and WWII-themed maps. He published all of his maps from his home in Winchester, Massachusetts, taking orders from customers through the post. In a delightfully personal touch, he would sometimes sign his maps in pencil before dispatching them to customers.