Lab #7: Census 2000/2010

The Black (alone) population percentage by county is highest in Southeastern areas of the United States. The percentage ranges from 0% to as much as 86% in populated counties. The data shows that the concentration happens in a historical context. In light of the migration of African people and the influx of slavery during the Jim Crow era, the Southeastern regions, mainly states such as Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. The possible reason for why these areas remain largely populated by the Black population is that there has been less migration between states.

According to the Census, the Asian population makes up approximately 5% of the United States population. The percentage ranges from 0% to 46%. This census data shows the areas where the concentration of Asians (alone) is high. From this GIS map, I can infer that Asians are concentrated in major states such as California, New York, and Washington. One must ask why this concentration happens in these particular areas. Through examining the historical presence of Asians in America, these areas have been major ports for major Asian migration into the United States. From Angel Island to creation of Chinatowns across the nations, these areas have become a hub for Asians to seek aid, services, and be with people they feel comfortable around.

 

The Other Race Alone percentage is highest in the Southwestern regions of the United States.  The Other Races population map shows the race that is not labeled as "White", "Black or African American", "American Indian and Alaska Native", "Asian" and "Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander." The percentage ranges from 0% to 39%. The majority of this population can be referenced to as Hispanics. The Southwestern regions are closest to the borders and easily accessible for recent migrants.

This GIS lab allowed me to utilize data from the census. This is a great tool to map out numbers, percentages, and other data references for analysis. I developed a better understanding of manipulating the legend values and coloring the map to represent levels of concentration. Through this exercise with working with Census data, I can see the dispersion of different races and the analyze them to see the connection with historical contexts.