U.S. Department of Commerce

How Do We Know?

Censuses and Surveys: They're How We Know

The Census Bureau has dedicated decades to collecting, processing and sharing the data collected from its many censuses and surveys. The questions have evolved over time to address our changing needs. Today, the Decennial Census, the Economic Census and the American Community Survey give Congress and community leaders the information they need to make informed decisions that shape our democracy. These statistics tell us how we know how our country is doing.

Infographic—Education

Education Infographic

Videos

The American Community Survey Tells Us About Our Nation

The American Community Survey (ACS) is a leading source of statistics about our nation and its people. Information from the ACS allows the public, businesses, governments and communities to make decisions, plan and invest for the future. Watch this video to learn more about the ACS.

How Do We Know About Our Nation

A census tells us not only about our past, but it can help us prepare for our future. So, HOW DO WE KNOW about our nation? To better understand where we came from, let's take a look back at what America was like during the first census.

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Source: U.S. Census Bureau | Public Information Office | (301) 763-4636 | Last Revised: October 11, 2012