August 1, 2009
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Profile America — This month in 1790, the young United States began its first census, as required by the Constitution. It took 18 months for federal marshals to complete that first count. When they started, there were only the 13 original colonies, but Vermont and Kentucky joined the Union during the census. Today, as the nation grows in population and housing units, it takes 10 years to prepare for the next census. Those taking next year’s census face the daunting task of finding and reaching those living in every house, apartment, condominium, trailer, cabin and boat from Alaska to Florida and from Hawaii to Maine. The 1790 Census counted just under 4 million people. The population in 2010 is projected to be just over 310 million. You can find these and more facts about America from the U.S. Census Bureauonline at <www>.
Sources: Statistical Abstract of the United States 2009, t. 3
http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2009edition.html
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