In 2306 we discuss - briefly - the process the nation went through as it acquired territory to the west and then converted it into governing entities. This involved carving territory into one mile squares following a proposal by Thomas Jefferson in the Land Ordinance of 1785. These were the bases of cities and private property. Their influence can be felt today.
One enterprising artsy guy has used Google Earth to see what has become of these squares. As you can see, they are everywhere. You can follow him on Instagram.
- Instagram: The Jefferson Grid.
- CityLab: Photographing the American 'Grid,' One Square Mile Per Frame.
- The Great American Grid: A History of the American Grid in 4 Minutes.
- Wikipedia: Public Land Survey System.
