The German map referenced as 2008.117.4 in the Beaumont Nord area has sparked curiosity due to its historical and geographical significance. This particular map, likely from a period of extensive military cartography, reveals much about the region and its transformation through various periods, especially during and after World War II. In this article, we’ll explore the map’s details, context, and relevance.
1. What is the German Map 2008.117.4?
The German map 2008.117.4 is a historical artifact of cartographic importance. It was created during a period when the German military was particularly interested in mapping regions for strategic purposes. This map specifically focuses on the Beaumont Nord area, a location known for its historical significance, particularly during the wartime periods of the 20th century.
Maps like these were used for military operations, urban planning, and post-war reconstruction, capturing both civilian and military infrastructure. The map number itself, 2008.117.4, suggests that it is part of a broader archival collection, possibly held in a military or governmental archive.
2. Historical Context of the Beaumont Nord Area
Beaumont Nord, located in northeastern France, is a region with a rich and tumultuous history. Over the centuries, it has witnessed numerous battles, occupations, and strategic developments. During World War II, the region was heavily affected by the German occupation of France, which lasted from 1940 until the Allied liberation in 1944.
The presence of German maps from this era is crucial for understanding the military strategies employed in these areas. Beaumont Nord was no exception. Maps produced by the German military, including 2008.117.4, often focused on key areas such as transportation routes, military fortifications, and potential points of resistance.
3. What Does the Map Reveal About the Area?
The map 2008.117.4 provides insights into the geography and topography of the Beaumont Nord region during the mid-20th century. Some key aspects it likely covers include:
a) Transportation Networks
- Roads and Railways: These would have been critical for troop movements and supply lines. The map would show the infrastructure used by both German forces and the local population.
- Bridges and Strategic Crossings: Maps of this type often emphasize locations of bridges and river crossings, which could be vital for controlling or defending the area.
b) Military Installations
- Fortifications: The German military often built bunkers, forts, and other structures for defense. The map would highlight such locations, crucial for understanding the region’s defense mechanisms during wartime.
- Occupied Buildings: Some maps may show which civilian buildings were repurposed by the Germans for military purposes, such as headquarters or storage facilities.
c) Topographic Features
- The map would feature natural landmarks, such as forests, hills, rivers, and other geographical features that could have influenced military tactics and civilian life.
4. The Role of Military Maps in World War II
Military maps, such as the German map 2008.117.4, were integral to strategic planning during World War II. These maps were used to assess terrain, plan troop movements, and identify weak points in the enemy’s defenses. Maps could also be used by commanders to coordinate operations with precision.
For instance, the German forces would use these maps to understand the terrain, to make quick decisions about where to deploy their units, and to predict the movements of Allied forces. In a region like Beaumont Nord, these maps were critical for the German military to maintain control during their occupation.
5. Legacy of the German Map 2008.117.4
While the map was originally created for military purposes, its historical value extends far beyond that. Today, maps like these serve as valuable resources for historians, geographers, and researchers interested in understanding the impact of the war on European landscapes and societies.
In Beaumont Nord, the legacy of World War II is still present, with traces of the occupation seen in preserved structures, local museums, and archives. The map 2008.117.4 serves as a time capsule that helps us understand how the area was shaped by its military history.
6. Conclusion
The German map 2008.117.4 from the Beaumont Nord area is more than just a relic of wartime cartography. It is a key historical document that offers a glimpse into the strategic importance of the region during the German occupation of France. Through the map, we can piece together the story of the area’s geography, military tactics, and the human impact of the war. For historians and enthusiasts alike, the map provides invaluable insights into a turbulent period in European history.