by Kepler.gl is a powerful open source digital tool that specializes in mapping tools and geospatial analyses for large-scale data sets. By creating data-driven maps, scholars that specialize within the digital humanities profession can visualize large amounts of mapping data with various interactive functionalities which can be used for visualization and data analysis within a geospatial context. Similar to my Voyant article, the same digital history class I took had me work with Kepler.gl to understand its functionality, while also using the program firsthand to map out different interviews of former slaves in different areas across the United States.
To begin, several links provided by the class assignments loaded up different data spreadsheets that held interviews between the formerly enslaved individuals provided by the modules given from the class. Once uploaded in the program, a map pops up with different points on the map. When hovering over a point, each one contains the name of the person, along with their gender, age, and where and when the interview was. There are several tabs that can be edited and help elaborate on the focal points of each interview, such as interactions and base maps. Within each tab are layers that can be edited even further to specify each tab for the user’s liking.
For the assignment, the edits I made resulted in showing different maps that can be used for the interviews being conducted in the area. Each map provides a different story or viewpoint with each edit I made to the maps. For example, the Heatmap assignment shows the number of interviews conducted in an area, with the larger and lighter-colored points showing more interviews within the area than the smaller, darker-colored points. Another example was the Network map, which highlights the network of where the interviews were conducted versus where the individual currently lives. Again, each map tells a different story that is created by how we utilize the program.
To conclude, Kepler.gl is an excellent digital mapping program when trying to view location datasets across a given region. The customizable geospatial toolbox helps the user create data-driven decisions for their projects or projections. It also displays a relatively clear map for people to easily view and understand what’s going on. The multiple tabs provided are in-depth for people to utilize the program, highlighting the diversity of opportunities it can bring. Overall, I highly recommend Kepler.gl for digital historians who aim to incorporate geospatial datasets into a certain historical topic.
Shortcode: file:///D:/Grad%20School/kepler.gl/kepler.gl.html
