This mid-20th-century pictorial map, published by Pan American World Airways (Pan Am), offers a vivid representation of the West Indies. Designed as a promotional tool, the map highlights the natural resources, industries, and cultural landmarks of the Caribbean nations while emphasizing Pan Am’s role in connecting the continent to the world with its newest plane, the Constellation.
The map’s centerpiece is the vibrant depiction of the islands, rendered in a striking yellow tone. Pictorial symbols represent key agricultural products, including coffee, cacao, sugar, bananas, tobacco, pineapple and cotton, along with oil in Aruba and Curacao.
Beyond its geographical and economic focus, the map is a celebration of modern air travel. A Constellation airplane soars above the map, symbolizing Pan Am’s extensive air routes and its ability to connect these resource-rich regions to global markets and travelers.