Definition & Meaning of "[put] {sb/sth} on the map"

What is the origin of the idiom "put somebody or something on the map" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "put somebody or something on the map" likely originated in the early 20th century in the United States. The phrase was first used in the context of geography, to describe the act of adding a new place to a map or atlas. Before the widespread use of maps, many places were unknown or not well-documented, especially in less developed regions. Therefore, adding a new place to a map was significant and often considered an important milestone in terms of documenting and recognizing that place. Over time, the phrase came to be used more broadly to describe any situation where someone or something previously unknown gained recognition or attention.