The National Savings Picture Map of the Continent of Europe

An incredible presentation of postwar European unity.

“The whole should be studied by all citizens, and growing citizens of GREAT BRITAIN, for the better understanding of our neighbors.”

The experience of the United Kingdom and its inhabitants during the Second World War was a harrowing one. Threats of indiscriminate bombings, possible invasion, and starvation by blockade were experienced by many thousands, and at times the prospects for victory seemed bleak. However, the U.K. and her allies eventually persevered, and efforts to reintegrate the British Isles, and indeed, all of Europe, began shortly after the conclusion of the war.

This is an excellent example of such an endeavor, issued collectively by the National Savings Committees of London, Edinburgh, and Belfast. Interestingly, the image depicts national borders from 1938, reflecting the difficulty in updating that information due to uncertainty surrounding the postwar political situation. Dozens of vignettes showcase agricultural and industrial exports, prominent historic figures, and significant scientific or cultural contributions from each European country. Major cities are identified with custom illustrations highlighting local architecture.

The map is surrounded by a border listing each nation’s flag, along with relevant facts & figures like population, size, currency, and capital. Germany is notably included as an apparent equal. The map was drawn by H. Charles Paine in 1945 and printed in Bristol by Mardon, Son, & Hall Ltd.