U. S. Census: A Mirror of America

Children's Literature - Greg M. Romaneck

In April 2000, citizens of the United States will be involved in completing the twenty-second census in the nation's history. Every ten years, Americans are asked by household to provide data on a variety of subjects to the Federal Government. The census has changed form over the years. In the past, enumerators would visit each home and interview heads of households. Now, information is distributed by mail and the Internet. The tedious work of compiling census data, that once took up to seven years to complete, is now done via complex computer networks. The information compiled through the census has had significant impact upon government policies. Issues related to unemployment, demographics, and congressional voting districts have all been heavily influenced by census data. The history of the census and these related political factors are the main focus of this fascinating historical text. The sweeping changes in American society that have been revealed by the census are presented in a balanced and readable fashion. Drawings, period photographs, and maps are utilized to further illuminate the topics presented. This book is very appropriate for use in a middle school or higher social studies, government, or U.S. history class.