When we think Geography, we think Maps. And when we think Maps, we think Atlases. Thus, an atlas is a collection of maps compiled together in a form of a book. It is typically a map of the Earth or any specific region of the Earth or even of other planets and celestial bodies in the solar system. Atlases are available in Multimedia format as well, this format being specially viewable on the computer or on the internet. In addition to presenting geographic features and political boundaries, many atlases often feature geopolitical, social, religious and economic statistics. The word 'Atlas' is derived from the name of Atlas, son of Iapetus and Clymene, supposed to uphold the pillars of heaven, which was his punishment for being the war leader of the Titans in the struggle with the Olympian gods. The name perhaps means lit. It is said to have been derived from Mount Atlas in Mauritania, which was important in Greek Mythology. The first reference to the modern day Atlas is said to have come from "Atlas, sive cosmographicae meditationes de fabrica mundi" (1585) by Flemish geographer Gerhardus Mercator (1512-1594), who might have been the first to use this word in this way. A picture of the Titan Atlas holding up the world appeared on the frontispiece of this and other early map collections.
Today, Atlases are generally used by students and laymen, with high-profile and detailed atlases being used by geographers and scientists.
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