The 1890 United States Census

The 1890 United States Census was a pivotal moment in the history of American demographics. Conducted by the United States Census Bureau, this was the eleventh decennial census, and it commenced on June 2, 1890. The census was a significant marker of population growth and shifts in the United States, indicating a resident population of 62,979,766.

Significance and Innovations

The 1890 census was notable for its innovative use of technology. It was the first time that Herman Hollerith utilized an electromechanical tabulating machine to process data. This development drastically reduced the time required to tabulate census results and laid the groundwork for modern computing technologies.

Data Collection and Challenges

The 1890 census was a comprehensive effort to document the demographic and economic features of the nation. It incorporated questions about race, homeownership, and citizenship, reflecting the changing societal concerns of the era. However, the census faced significant challenges, notably the destruction of most of the records by fire in 1921, which has left only fragments available for genealogical and historical research.

Comparison with Other Censuses

The census marked a significant increase in the nation's population compared to the previous 1880 United States Census, which recorded approximately 50,189,209 residents. The population growth also played a crucial role in the allocation of seats in the United States House of Representatives, influencing the 1890 United States House of Representatives elections.

Impact and Legacy

The results of the 1890 census had far-reaching implications for public policy and economic planning. It provided valuable insights into urbanization trends, as well as the status of agriculture and industry in post-Civil War America. Despite the loss of detailed records, the broad statistical data had a lasting impact on how demographic information was utilized in the United States.

Related Topics

• United States Census Bureau
• Herman Hollerith
• United States House of Representatives
• Demographics of the United States
• 1890 in the United States

The 1890 census remains a fascinating subject of study for historians and demographers, offering a glimpse into a rapidly transforming nation at the dawn of the 20th century.