Willem Janszoon Blaeu was a prominent Dutch cartographer and publisher born in 1571. He is best known for his detailed maps and globes, which played a significant role in the advancement of navigation during the 17th century. Blaeu founded the Blaeu publishing house, which became famous for producing high-quality atlases and geographical works. Blaeu's most notable work is the Atlas Maior, a comprehensive collection of maps that showcased the world as it was known at the time. His maps were characterized by their artistic detail and accuracy, making them valuable resources for explorers and scholars. Blaeu passed away in 1638, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of cartography.