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Today in History: First U.S. Census Counts 3.9 Million Residents

8/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On August 2, 1790, the first United States census was completed, recording a population of 3,929,214. This census was mandated by the Constitution, specifically Article 1, Section 2. It marked a significant step in understanding the demographics of the newly formed nation and laid the groundwork for future censuses.

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Story summary

On August 2, 1790, the first United States census was completed, recording a population of 3,929,214. This census was mandated by the Constitution, specifically Article 1, Section 2. It marked a significant step in understanding the demographics of the newly formed nation and laid the groundwork for future censuses.