This map was drawn by John White, the official artist on the expedition to North America in 1585, which was promoted by Sir Walter Ralegh (1552/4–1618). His work, including this map, was engraved by Theodor de Bry, who illustrated Thomas Harriot’s 'Briefe and true report of the new found land of Virginia'. Harriot’s book was published in Latin, English, French and German editions in 1590, creating an impact across Europe.

The map shows America as a lush land, with safe harbours and an easily accessible interior, which were key features for prospective settlers and imperialists. It also indicates this was a land already populated by Native Americans. This was not a ‘new world’ that was ‘discovered’ by Europeans, but one in which sophisticated societies were already well established.

On his return to Britain, White was appointed by Ralegh to establish a new colony in the Chesapeake Bay, but he landed at Roanoke by mistake in 1587. He quickly went back to London to seek further help, but when he finally returned to the colony at Roanoke he found it deserted and ransacked.