Original scientific paper

Census as Self-Definition in America

Željko Bujas

Abstract

After an introductory look back at the Roman census of Biblical fame, the special and unique position of the Census in the United States is emphasized. The paper then offers a view of American censuses, beginning with 1790, not as mere administrative devices but as specific manifestations of what may be termed national self-definition
and redefinition. This is illustrated by the censuses offering significant insights into a number of major parameters of sociocultural change in America. These include the westward match of the Center of Population and the resulting redistribution of the population in the four present principa! regions, as well as socioculturally significant
shifts in employment patterns. They also make it possible for us to correlate ethnic affiliation with the level of education and famil income. Naturally, the original constitutional (and ultimately political) purpose ofy the Census has been preserved in periodical reapportionment of House seats based on, and necessitated by, the
population distribution figures provided by each new census. To the degree that House seat reapportionment reflects societal change, the Census can be said to participate significantly in the process of self-definition and redefinition of the United States as a nation.

Keywords

Hrčak ID:

121638

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/121638

Publication date:

26.10.1987.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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