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"Equally Available to Anyone": The Invention of Public Use Microdata at the U.S. Census Bureau
Diana L Magnuson1, Steven Ruggles1
1Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
Demography
|August 13, 2026
Summary
The U.S. Census Bureau created microdata from the 1960 Census, revolutionizing population analysis and research. Ongoing academic-Census Bureau collaboration is vital for accessible microdata.
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Social Sciences
- Data Science
Background:
- The U.S. Census Bureau introduced microdata as a key output of the 1960 Census.
- The 1960 Public Use Sample marked a significant advancement in analyzing U.S. population data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the historical development and impact of U.S. Census microdata.
- To emphasize the importance of academic-Census Bureau collaboration for microdata accessibility.
Main Methods:
- Historical analysis of the development of microdata products.
- Examination of the role of academic-Census Bureau interactions in shaping data accessibility.
Main Results:
- The introduction of microdata in 1960 spurred extensive new research on the U.S. population.
- Collaborative efforts, particularly through the Population Association of America, were crucial for the initial development of microdata.
Conclusions:
- Continued partnership between researchers and the Census Bureau is essential for enhancing the usability and accessibility of microdata.
- Future advancements in census-based research depend on sustained collaboration and data stewardship.
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