This fascinating map recording the military history of England, Wales and Ireland was first published in John Speed’s ‘Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine’ in 1627. For this edition a separate world atlas entitled ‘A Prospect of the most Famous Parts of the World’ was first published. Bound between the two works was this map with four pages of accompanying text. The map is derived from one separately published by John Speed similarly entitled, published c.1601, which survives in just five known examples. This map is engraved by Cornelis Danckerts for George Humble. The battles recorded include the Norman invasion of 1066 and all subsequent conflicts through 1588 and the Spanish Armada. A trail of ships up through the North Sea marks the Armada’s defeat. Small illustrations of opposing troops mark the site of battles. This is an example of the first state with the imprint of George Humble. This state was issued through the 1650s with alteration to the text setting on the verso only. Provenance: Clive A. Burden Ltd.; private English collection. Shirley (1991) nos. 239 & 431; Skelton (1970) 18.