GéoPeuple: The Creation and the Analysis of Topographic and Demographic Data Over 200 Years

Abstract

The aim of the GeoPeuple project is to analyze the raise of population from the late twenty-eight to the early twenty-first century according to the topographic elements that characterize each commune (administrative area conceptually close to municipality): the infrastructure, the equipment, the settlements as well as the natural component such as the relief. We wish to learn more about the history of each commune but also to identify stylized facts if any. In order to understand the evolution of the population at the commune level, a first web interface has been proposed. It allows a better understanding of the aggregation processes. Then we built topographic vector data bases from old maps which required the understanding of the map content as well as a long process of interactive digitalization. To start the analysis step, we developed indices that characterize each commune. At least the analysis is performed: it is based first on the classification of each commune over time. Current study is focusing on the analysis of transitions over time.