Cartography

Source: [commons.wikimedia.org]

Cartography is the study of maps and the practice of making maps.  Cartography is the art and science of graphically representing a geographical area. Cartographers generally study the history of map-making and use tools and techniques to make a new map. Cartography is allied with Geography in its concern with the broader aspects of the Earth and its life. It's no wonder the practice of map-making is a complex one. 

The First World Map

Source: [commons.wikimedia.org]

The earliest map isn't well-defined, that is why those map is a matter of debate. The Babylonians created the first type of maps carving them onto clay tablets from about 2300 B.C. Babylonians mapped the world in a flattened, disk-shaped form. On the Babylonian world map the world was represented by basic geometric shapes not literal replications on tablet. 

In the 2nd century AD, Claudius Ptolemaeus (Ptolemy) established the basis for subsequent efforts with his eight-volume work Guide to Geography which showed the earth as spherical. 

Ptolemy's Map
Source: [commons.wikimedia.org]

Modern Cartography

Source: [commons.wikimedia.org]

Maps became increasingly accurate and factual with the application of scientific methods. The remarkable improvements in satellite photography since the late 20th century, has been used to create highly detailed maps.  The use of geographic information system (GIS) has been indispensable in expanding the scope of cartographic subjects.