Sign In

This 1842 map, published to accompany Baron Paul Charles Amable de Bourgoing's book Tableau de l'état actuel et des progrès probables des chemins de fer de l'Allemagne et du Continent Européen, illustrates the status of railway construction across Europe, with a particular emphasis on Germany.

The map delineates the railways of Europe with a focus on Germany, categorizing them based on their state of completion or planning. The legend and insets detail the years in which different sections were constructed or projected to be completed. Notable routes include those connecting Berlin to Hamburg, Munich to Vienna, and Cologne to Minden. The map also highlights the proposed extensions from 1842 onwards that aimed to link key cities like Prague, Warsaw, and Trieste. These projections are categorized into periods, with specific routes expected to be completed between 1842 and 1844, such as Karlsruhe to Heidelberg, Frankfurt to Heidelberg, and Berlin to Hamburg. Between 1842 and 1852, additional lines were planned, including Brunn to Prague, Prague to Dresden, and Cologne to Minden.

The map is enriched with extensive annotations providing context for the projected expansions. The left and right margins list routes expected to be completed, reflecting the dynamic pace of railway construction. Significant annotations include the political and economic implications of these developments, predicting that within a decade, railways would connect major capitals of Germany and neighboring countries like Hungary, Poland, Italy, Belgium, Holland, and Denmark. The map also includes statistics on the lengths of the railways, indicating that by 1842, 1,223 kilometers of railways were active, 1,462 kilometers were under construction, and 4,670 kilometers were in various stages of planning, totaling 7,145 kilometers.

This map is a testament to the foresight and planning that characterized the railway boom of the 19th century. By documenting the state of European railways at a critical juncture, it offers valuable historical insights into the infrastructure that would underpin Europe's industrial and economic ascendancy. The political forecasts highlighted on the map suggest that the railways would, within ten years, unify the continent's major capitals and integrate regions from the Baltic Sea to the Adriatic, and from England to the Orient. Commercially, it was predicted that the railways would establish new transit routes, enhancing trade and connectivity. 

Baron Paul Charles Amable de Bourgoing

Baron Paul Charles Amable de Bourgoing was a distinguished French diplomat and writer in the 19th century. Born on September 6, 1791, in Nevers, France, he pursued a career in diplomacy that saw him serve in various significant capacities across Europe. De Bourgoing's diplomatic career included posts in Spain, where he was involved in the negotiations during the turbulent period of the Peninsular War. He also served as the French ambassador to Denmark, a role in which he furthered French interests and navigated complex international relations.

Among other achievements, he is credited with inventing the process "email ombrant" (pottery decorating) of lithophanes in 1827 in France.

In addition to his diplomatic endeavors, Baron de Bourgoing was a prolific writer. His works often focused on contemporary political and economic issues, reflecting his deep understanding of the geopolitical landscape of Europe. One of his notable contributions is the book Tableau de l'état actuel et des progrès probables des chemins de fer de l'Allemagne et du Continent Européen, published in 1842. This book, accompanied by a detailed map, provided an insightful analysis of the state and potential development of railways across Europe, emphasizing Germany. The work highlighted the transformative impact of railways on economic integration and industrial growth.

Baron de Bourgoing's legacy is marked by his keen intellect and contributions to both diplomacy and literature. His analyses remain valuable historical documents, offering a window into the economic and political dynamics of 19th-century Europe. He passed away on January 21, 1864, leaving behind a legacy of significant diplomatic achievements and influential writings.