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The 1880 U.S. Census was the tenth federal census and marked an important step in how population data was collected. For the first time, census takers recorded the relationship of each person to the head of household. This change gave researchers a much clearer view of family structures.
The census also listed occupations, places of birth for individuals and their parents, and certain health conditions. These details provide valuable insights into family life, immigration patterns, and the types of work people did during the late 19th century.
Taken just after Reconstruction, the 1880 Census reflects a period of growth and transition in the United States. It captures demographic shifts as people moved west, settled in cities, and built new communities. For anyone researching this era, the 1880 Census remains one of the most informative historical records available.