First edition of Johnston’s map of North America with a prominent delineation of the fluid nature of British, Mexican American and Texan claims in the west of the continent. 

This map is a powerful document illustrating elements of the simmering tensions on the western part of the continent which had been escalating since the end of the Napoleonic War and the Adams-Onis Treaty between the United States and Spain of 1820-1.

Geographically, as is usual with Johnston, the shape of the continent bears a strong resemblance to John Arrowsmith’s map of North America as portrayed on his map of the western hemisphere. However, politically, Johnston adds several interesting features. The most prominent is a strong portrayal of a separate Republic of Texas. Established in 1836, and declared a rebellious province by the Mexican government, the conflict between the two sides has now grown into folklore. By 1843, the Republic had been recognized as an independent country by both Britain and France, much to the fury of Mexico and a growing unease for the United States. Ultimately, it was the decision by the United States to allow the Republic to join the Union which was the direct cause of the Mexican-American War of 1846-8.

In the Pacific Northwest, the border between the Oregon Territory and British Columbia is still in dispute, as it had been for decades. On this map, as it was issued in the United Kingdom, it shows the border following the Columbia River, as per British claims. Conversely, American claims wanted the border to follow the 54th Parallel. This would finally be settled in 1846 by the Treaty of Oregon, sometimes known as the 1846 Treaty which settled it along its modern 49th Parallel.

Another interesting feature is the clear demarcation between Mexico and the Californias. During this period, the province of California was divided into two separate entities, as shown on this map: Upper or New California, sometimes called Spanish California which covers mostly what is now the modern State of California; while south, the Peninsula is called Old California, often called Mexican California. This demarcation was also the cause of multiple tensions within the region.

Indeed, it was this period and background which was used by the writer Johnston McCulley to introduce his fictional hero “Zorro” who defended the Californian population against corrupt bureaucrats, army officers and politicians sent from Mexico City to govern the province.

Finally, an odd sliver of land is thrust between the eastern border of California and the western border of Texas. This is the Anahuac Mountain Range which runs through central Mexico and acts as a natural border between the two regions.

Johnston’s map proved popular and had a long publishing history, thus it is not rare. However, this example is the first edition and bears a particularly fine and strong delineation of the claims, territories and boundaries which would shortly erupt in the Mexican-American War and change the history of America.

Later editions record new political changes, joining Texas and California to the Union as well as establishing the border between Oregon and British Columbia.

Original colour. [AMER2424]