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Geospatial Information Systems

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An Economist’s Guide to Economic History

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Abstract

Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) allow datasets to be matched with (historical) spatial units of analysis. The visualisation, and subsequent analysis, of geographical patterns that emerge from the use of this methodology constitutes a powerful tool in the toolkit of a researcher. This chapter illustrates some of the main areas of application, such as the visualisation of events and the mapping of distances and travel routes in historical settings. The chapter concludes with tips on how to make first steps towards using GIS methods in economic history research.

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Johnson, N.D. (2018). Geospatial Information Systems. In: Blum, M., Colvin, C. (eds) An Economist’s Guide to Economic History. Palgrave Studies in Economic History. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-96568-0_49

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-96568-0_49

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-96567-3

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