United States Census Bureau

United States Census Bureau

The United States Census Bureau (pronounced /ˈsɛnsəs ˈbjʊəroʊ/) is a principal agency of the U.S. Federal Statistical System responsible for producing data about the American people and economy.

Etymology

The term "census" originates from the Latin word census, which means "estimate". The term "bureau" is of French origin and means "office" or "desk".

History

The United States Census Bureau was established in 1902, although the first national census conducted by the U.S. government was in 1790. The Bureau is part of the United States Department of Commerce and its director is appointed by the President of the United States.

Function

The primary function of the United States Census Bureau is to conduct the decennial census, which enumerates the population of the United States. This data is used to allocate Congressional seats, electoral votes, and government program funding.

In addition to the decennial census, the Bureau conducts economic surveys and demographic surveys, including the American Community Survey and the Current Population Survey.

Related Terms

• Demography
• Population
• Statistics
• Data collection
• Survey methodology

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