Basemaps, as their name implies, are the "base" for map layers. A final map includes a base and one or more "theme" layers placed on top.
Basemaps tend to include the most "persistent" information on a map (the canvas or template.)
This map is a working chart used to determine page layout. The 2004 UAC map (produced by King County) was used as a spaceholder.
On that map by the shape of the east boundary of the Tiger Mtn. and Hutchinson precincts was in error in 2004, a condition being corrected in Atlas.
The color scheme, fonts and detail make it a target for one of the Atlas base maps.
This 2x3 template is a good base for summarizing boundaries whether or not a full size image is included in the atlas. Good candidates include the Legislative Districts, KC Council Districts, KC Court Districts, along with Congressional Districts and other high-level boundaries.
The base elements include the legend, the background fill, and the image frames.
This chart is one of a number of "base" map samples. Base maps, once decided, allow other layers on top.
In this case the experiment was with hill shading.
Another "base" map sample.
Another "base" sample
Another "base" sample
Another "base" sample
Another "base" sample
Another "base" sample
UAC boundaries overlaying a 2009 aerial photo.
USGS 100k sample
USGS 1x2 sample
King County produced UAC precinct map. Used as a reference.
A basemap sample
Base map sample
????
A base map sample
Basemap sample
????
Forest cover
????
?????
????
????
colCenter
colRight