This book investigates the evolution and significance of cartography in the United States, tracing the development of mapmaking from its colonial origins to the late 20th century. Walter William Ristow, a distinguished geographer and former Chief of the Geography and Map Division at the Library of Congress, draws upon extensive archival research and his deep expertise to present a comprehensive overview. The work examines the key figures, institutions, and technological advancements that shaped American maps and the individuals who created them, arguing for the crucial role of cartography in the nation's expansion, administration, and cultural identity.

Walter William Ristow's "American Maps and Mapmakers" is recognized as a foundational text in the study of American cartography. Ristow's extensive background lends significant authority to his analysis, providing a scholarly yet accessible account of the subject. The book is valued for its thorough research and its comprehensive scope, covering a wide array of map types and the individuals responsible for their creation. It serves as an essential reference for historians, geographers, and anyone interested in the visual representation of America's past.