MELISH, John (1771-1822) Map of the United States with the contiguous British and Spanish Possessions...1820

MELISH, John (1771-1822)
Map of the United States with the contiguous British and Spanish Possessions Complied from the latest & best Authorities
Copper plate engraving with original hand color
Philadelphia: James Finlayson, June 16^th, 1820
43 ¼ x 56 ¾ inch sheet

The second most important map in American history, juxtaposing for the first time the discoveries of Lewis and Clark, Zebulon Pike, Thomas Long, Thomas Nuttal and Andrew Ellicott.  The first and most famous cartographic expression of “manifest destiny,” the map was a tempting invitation to Texas and a threat to Mexico.  One of the most studied maps in America; research is available on request.