Characterized by one of the harshest climates and vast uninhabited expanses, the Arctic Region has long fascinated explorers and the public during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. With lands controlled by Russia, Canada, Denmark, and the United States, it contains the iconic North Pole and is home to indigenous Inuits who have lived off the land for centuries. The frozen climate was long thought to hold a route to Asia from Europe. Numerous European explorers unsuccessfully attempted to navigate the region during the search for the Northwest Passage. Beginning in 1937, the Western portions of the Arctic were explored by Russian expeditions on floating ice drifts. Greenland was discovered some five hundred years prior to Columbus’ arrival in what is now the modern-day Dominican Republic. Leif Erikson is considered the first European to set for in North America with the discovery of Greenland. The region has been settled with some degree of European presence since the tenth century. The Arctic Region contains one of the most unique ecosystems and is predominantly covered in treeless permafrost. The Central Intelligence Agency has been producing the most accurate geopolitical maps for use by military and political leaders to develop strategy and policy since 1941. CIA maps are distinguished by their characteristic minimalism, crisp lines, and immediately recognizable style. While the Arctic region continues to change and evolve, it is limited by its natural geography and remains one of the last genuinely remote places on the planet which is documented in this historical production,. Our museum quality giclee print comes printed with archival ink on premium heavyweight matte paper. Shipped in a sturdy cardboard tube your print will arrive ready to be framed. This eye-catching vintage map reproduction print makes the perfect gift for anyone that loves history and imagery.