Problematic Polygons

Data Compilation from Ethnographic Sources

To create our experimental visualization, we compiled data by reviewing publicly available ethnographic sources. Using the maps and descriptions in those texts, we created a longitude-latitute coodinate for sites of interest, and associated Indigenous place names, land use information, and the individuals who shared this knowledge, along with their band and village affiliations.

We carefully organized this data in a spreadsheet that would allow the deck.gl code to generate connections between individuals' home places and the places in their territories they identified as significant. This approach enabled us to map a network of relationships to the land, based on the rich information contained within existing ethnographic records.

Visualization based on "Band", "Language", and "Use"

Using the compiled ethnographic data, we developed three distinct visualizations in deck.gl: one centered on "band", one on "language", and one on "use". Each visualization highlights different aspects of the data and offers a unique perspective on Indigenous land relationships.

The "band" visualization emphasizes connections between individuals and their contemporary First Nation affiliations, showcasing community-based territoriality.

The "language" visualization focuses on the natal language of the speakers, revealing relationships between communities with shared linguistic roots.

The "use" visualization categorizes connections based on the type of place, such as resource procurement sites or settlements, illustrating the diverse ways in which people interact with the landscape. At this point, the use codes are as folllows:

These three visualizations, each with its own color scheme and arc classifications, provide a multifaceted understanding of Indigenous territorial connections.

Data Cautions and Experimental Purpose

It is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of our data and the experimental nature of this cartographic exercise. Our visualizations are based on a relatively small dataset derived from published ethnographic sources, which may not capture the full complexity of Indigenous land tenure systems. Important places may be missing, and gendered landscapes may be underrepresented due to the focus of early ethnographers.

Therefore, these maps should not be interpreted as definitive representations of any particular territory. Instead, they serve as an experiment in exploring alternative ways to visualize Indigenous relationships with the land, moving beyond the limitations of traditional polygon-based maps. Our aim is to provoke dialogue, inspire further research, and encourage the development of more nuanced and culturally sensitive cartographic methods.