Misunderstandings and mastery: cartography of the lower Danube during the enlightenment era (1768–1774)

• Published in: GeoJournal 2023-12, Vol.88 (6), p.6259-6283
• Main Author: Constantinescu, Ştefan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 18th century; Age of Enlightenment; Cartography; Coordinate systems; Coordinates; Enlightenment; Environmental Management; Geography; Human Geography; Nautical charts; Nomenclature; Rivers; Social Sciences; Terminology; Toponymy
• ISSN: 1572-9893; 0343-2521; 1572-9893
• DOI: 10.1007/s10708-023-10968-6

This study delves into three distinct cartographic representations of the Danube River's course, stretching from Hârșova to the Black Sea, originating from the tumultuous era of the Russo-Ottoman conflict (1768–1774). The materials presently being examined are pivotal in redefining the cartographic perspective of the Danube region, a viewpoint that has largely relied on nautical charts or maps influenced by Ptolemy for more than four centuries. Although they were abundant in toponymic details and descriptions, they did not incorporate modern projection and coordinate systems. Published in Russian (1771), German (1778), and French (circa 1770s), these maps not only shed light on the geographical comprehension during the Cartographic Enlightenment but also underscore their primary military intent—to navigate a labyrinthine liquid territory. Through the synthesis of these materials, the research introduces consolidated figures and constructs a toponymic database reflective of late 18th century nomenclature. The article further delineates the wetland region's hydrographic structure, pinpointing the evolution and occasional misinterpretation of toponyms. These cartographical products provide insights into the local way of life and indirectly reference the Old Believers, thus serving as a prime example of cartography's capacity to illuminate human differences.