The United Nations has recently approved a new world map, prompting a review of historical mapmaking efforts and their inherent inaccuracies. Throughout history, creating a perfect representation of the Earth on a flat surface has proven impossible, resulting in numerous map projections—each with its own strengths and weaknesses. These projections inevitably distort either area, shape, distance, or direction, leading to varied interpretations of geographical relationships. The newest map approved by the UN, like its predecessors, also faces scrutiny for not perfectly representing the world, highlighting the ongoing challenges of cartography. This ongoing issue stems from the fundamental difficulty of translating a three-dimensional sphere onto a two-dimensional plane. The article examines past maps and the compromises made in their creation, setting the context for understanding the limitations of the UN’s latest attempt.