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Mapping the World 1990

Status
Returning Series
First Aired
December 12, 1990
Last Aired
May 29, 2026
Format
37 seasons · 1,198 eps
Total Runtime
~239.6 hours (12 min/ep)
Created By
Jean-Christophe Victor
Networks
ARTE, La Sept
★ TMDB users: 8.7/10 from 9 votes Documentary 37 seasons · 1198 eps Returning Series
Community & Your Rating
★ 8.7/10
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Quick answer

What is Mapping the World?

Mapping the World is a television series that premiered on December 12, 1990. Known in French as Le Dessous des cartes, the program focuses on explaining geopolitical contexts by utilizing maps as visual support.

Type
TV series
Year
1990
Status
Returning Series
Episodes
1,198
Runtime
12 minutes
First aired
Dec 12, 1990
Last aired
May 29, 2026
Original language
FR
Origin
FR
Networks
ARTE, La Sept
Genres
Documentary
Updated
Series guide

At a glance

Rating
★ TMDB users: 8.7/10 from 9 votes
Format
37 seasons · 1,198 episodes
Episode runtime
~12 minutes
Status
Returning Series
Networks
ARTE, La Sept
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Overview

Mapping the World is a television series that premiered on December 12, 1990. Known in French as Le Dessous des cartes, the program focuses on explaining geopolitical contexts by utilizing maps as visual support. The series was created by political scientist Jean-Christophe Victor, who served as the host of the show until his death in 2016. The format of the program is designed to break down the complex world of geopolitics into ten-minute, bite-sized segments. According to promotional material, the intent of this structure is to provide viewers with information that allows them to speak knowledgeably about global affairs. The show has continued to air since its inception in 1990. While the series title relates to the study of geography and political boundaries, it remains distinct from digital mapping services or platforms used for driving directions and traffic updates. The program remains a long-running resource for viewers interested in understanding international relations through a cartographic lens.

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Should you watch it?

“Geopolitics made digestible for the everyday viewer.”

Reasons to watch
  • Breaks down complex topics into manageable segments
  • Useful for staying informed on global issues
Keep in mind
  • May oversimplify nuanced political matters

You want to understand world affairs without heavy academic detail.

Suitable for general audiences seeking basic geopolitical literacy.

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Comprehensive Directory

Episode guide

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91%
Mytharc (89): Crucial lore & season climaxes
Core (918): Character development & subplots
Side Quest (0): Standalone / filler
Season 1 · 2 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide & lore primer →
Season 2 · 30 episodes Open the complete Season 2 guide & lore primer →
Season 3 · 28 episodes Open the complete Season 3 guide & lore primer →
Season 4 · 43 episodes Open the complete Season 4 guide & lore primer →
Season 5 · 42 episodes Open the complete Season 5 guide & lore primer →
Season 6 · 41 episodes Open the complete Season 6 guide & lore primer →
Season 7 · 40 episodes Open the complete Season 7 guide & lore primer →
Season 8 · 36 episodes Open the complete Season 8 guide & lore primer →
Season 9 · 35 episodes Open the complete Season 9 guide & lore primer →
Season 10 · 36 episodes Open the complete Season 10 guide & lore primer →
Season 11 · 36 episodes Open the complete Season 11 guide & lore primer →
Season 12 · 30 episodes Open the complete Season 12 guide & lore primer →
Season 13 · 37 episodes Open the complete Season 13 guide & lore primer →
Season 14 · 37 episodes Open the complete Season 14 guide & lore primer →
Season 15 · 35 episodes Open the complete Season 15 guide & lore primer →
Season 16 · 35 episodes Open the complete Season 16 guide & lore primer →
Season 17 · 37 episodes Open the complete Season 17 guide & lore primer →
Season 18 · 37 episodes Open the complete Season 18 guide & lore primer →
Season 19 · 38 episodes Open the complete Season 19 guide & lore primer →
Season 20 · 36 episodes Open the complete Season 20 guide & lore primer →
Season 21 · 36 episodes Open the complete Season 21 guide & lore primer →
Season 22 · 35 episodes Open the complete Season 22 guide & lore primer →
Season 23 · 37 episodes Open the complete Season 23 guide & lore primer →
Season 24 · 37 episodes Open the complete Season 24 guide & lore primer →
Season 25 · 34 episodes Open the complete Season 25 guide & lore primer →
Season 26 · 30 episodes Open the complete Season 26 guide & lore primer →
Season 27 · 29 episodes Open the complete Season 27 guide & lore primer →
Season 28 · 19 episodes Open the complete Season 28 guide & lore primer →
Season 29 · 30 episodes Open the complete Season 29 guide & lore primer →
Season 30 · 29 episodes Open the complete Season 30 guide & lore primer →
Verified insights

Frequently asked questions

How long is each episode?

Each episode runs for approximately ten minutes.

Is this series good for beginners?

Yes, it's designed to make geopolitics accessible to general viewers.

Does it cover current events?

It addresses geopolitical topics in a way that remains relevant over time.

Is there a lot of technical jargon?

The series aims to minimize complex terminology for broader understanding.

Can I use this for educational purposes?

Yes, it serves as a helpful introduction to global political concepts.

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