[OSGeo-Discuss] Correct List for Newcomers

[Bob Kerstetter]

On Mar 28, 2011, at 9:27 PM, Alex Mandel wrote:

> On 03/28/2011 05:43 PM, Bob Kerstetter wrote:
>> Hello,
>> 
>> Is this the correct list for asking newbie questions?
>> 
>> For example, I am using the decklogs from a 1940s US Navy cruiser to trace its journey's from 1942 through 1945. I know how to enter coordinates, draw lines and load maps, but where do I obtain a specific map? I need one covering the entire Pacific Ocean as it was defined during that era. I would like the map to show the Pacific and all of its islands, including small areas such as Yap and Ulithe, for example. I would also like to have a layer showing the geographic structures on the Pacific floor, such as the IBM arc. Do resources such as these exist, or do I need to create my own? I have searched the Web for answers but really don't know enough to enter search criteria correctly.
>> 

<snip>

>  could you please clarify what
> software you are using so we can direct you to the more appropriate list
> on that?

I am using Quantum GIS on Mac OS X.

> Of the course the other approach is to more generally ask what software
> should you be using for your particular use case.

Is QGIS the correct software to use? It allows me to plot locations and draw line between them. 

> Personally if you know where to access a paper
> reproduction I would say digitize it, georeference it and use that as
> your base map.

How do you georeference a map? I have paper maps.

> 
> Enjoy,
> Alex
> 
>