Here's what we do know:
* Maps have been around for a long time: Cave paintings and markings on pottery from prehistoric times suggest humans have been representing their world for thousands of years.
* Early maps were very basic: They likely depicted immediate surroundings or routes for travel.
* Over time, mapmaking evolved: Ancient civilizations like the Babylonians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans developed more sophisticated maps, incorporating geographic features and using scales and grids.
* The concept of mapmaking spread: The exchange of ideas and knowledge led to the development of maps in different parts of the world, each with its own unique styles and techniques.
Therefore, no single person can be credited with "discovering" maps. Rather, mapmaking is a product of human ingenuity and necessity, evolving over centuries and influenced by various cultures and advancements.
