Nicolas Sanson d'Abbeville (1600-1667), Ameriqve Septentrionale (1650)

First published in 1650 and considered one of the most important maps of North America during the seventeenth century, Ameriqve Septentrionale offered several insights into the New World. The single-sheet copper engraved map depicts North America, the Caribbean islands, and part of the northern coast of South America. Sanson relied primarily on reports from missionaries, explorers, and travel accounts to gather the information. All five Great Lakes are depicted, and lakes Ontario and Superior are named for the first time.

Courtesy of the Wisconsin State Historical Society