Linguistic maps

The Extent of the Austronesian Language Family

In the vast tapestry of human languages, the Austronesian family emerges as a fascinating and expansive chapter, weaving its linguistic threads across Maritime Southeast Asia, Mainland Southeast Asia, Madagascar, the Pacific Islands, and Taiwan. Boasting approximately 386 million speakers, it stands as the fifth-largest language family globally, with major languages like Malay, Javanese, and Tagalog resonating in the hearts of tens of millions. The Austronesian journey, originating from the shores of Taiwan over 4000 years ago, unfolds a tale of migration, assimilation, and exploration, as these seafaring pioneers left an indelible mark from Madagascar to Easter Island.

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Fictional MapsPolitical maps

A Fresh Take on the United States Map: Urban Centers Redraw Political Boundaries

What if we redrew the United States map based on our largest urban areas? A fascinating new political map does just that, offering a unique perspective on how our nation’s political landscape might look under very different circumstances. This urban-centric approach creates 48 hypothetical states, each centered around a major metropolitan area, with surprising implications for the Electoral College and political affiliations.

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16-Year Democracy Index Change

Democracy, a term resonating with ideals of participation, equality, and freedom, is a cornerstone of political systems worldwide. Understanding the health of democracies across the globe is a complex task. Fortunately, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has provided us with a valuable tool—the Democracy Index. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of democracy, delve into the intricacies of the Democracy Index, examine how countries are classified, and ponder the ever-changing landscape of democracy over time.

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NewsVivid maps

23 Best Maps of 2023

As we bid farewell to the transformative year of 2023, a period marked by a tapestry of global events and dynamic shifts, we find ourselves reflecting on the multifaceted stories that have unfolded across our planet. From geopolitical changes to environmental challenges, the world map has been our steadfast companion, offering a visual narrative of the myriad landscapes that shape our shared human experience.

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