Smith's Explanation of the Tides.

This chart, featured in Smith's Illustrated Astronomy, was designed specifically for public and common schools across the United States. Created by Asa Smith, Principal of Public School No. 12 in New York City, the work aimed to make the principles of physical astronomy comprehensible to young learners. Smith described his goal as “to present all distinguishing principles in physical Astronomy with as few words as possible; but with such ocular demonstrations, by way of diagrams and maps, as shall make the subject easily understood.”

The chart on tides exemplifies Smith's dedication to clarity and education, using visual aids to explain the complex interplay of gravitational forces exerted by the Moon and Sun, as well as the Earth's rotation. It stands as a testament to 19th-century efforts to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public education.