When these companies were consolidated in the 1960s, a new map was created using a “Beckian grid.” Named after Harry Beck, who standardized the London Underground map using 45- and 90-degree angles, the creation was then redesigned in 1972 by Vignelli—but not without controversy.

When the subway first opened in 1904, maps were simple diagrams that depicted individual subway companies, such as the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT), the Brooklyn-Manhattan Transit Company (BMT), and the city-owned Independent Subway System (IND).

A lot has changed on the subway in the last 45 years, including stations, train cars, platforms, and even how we pay. But one thing that hadn't changed is the subway map. That is, until now.