Historic maps are a great untapped resource for studying aspects of social, political, and diplomatic history, the history of art, and linguistics. These twenty-two maps, eighteen of which are reproduced in full color (22 x 17 inches or smaller), will be of value to anyone interested in Texas. They show how various European nations perceived Texas and the Southwest and reflect the struggles for empire in the New World. An illustrated 66-page guide is included, authored by J. C. Martin, director of the San Jacinto Museum of History Association, and Robert Sidney Martin, director of special collections at Louisiana State University. Contours of Discovery is published by the Texas State Historical Association and comes in a handsome and durable portfolio.  All of the maps are suitable for display or framing.