Geography is one of the four science disciplines in the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The recent history of Geography shows many changes to the organization, our programs, our methods, and our customers.

While continuing to fulfill our mission, Geography is adapting to the needs of the information society. As a result, historical and archival publications, and informational products presented on our Web pages may reference Geography in a variety of ways including the following: Geography Discipline, National Mapping Discipline, National Mapping Division, National Mapping Program, Topographic Division, and Topographic Branch. You may also see shortened versions of these names, as for example, Mapping, National Mapping, Topo, etc. All are synonymous with Geography and all reflect milestones in our rich history that began with the creation of the USGS in 1879.