Codes and Frequencies
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Explore how IPUMS created this variable
Most IPUMS data transformations are performed using variable harmonization tables that specify how each value in the source data is recoded. Some variables also require programming logic in addition to the harmonization table. The harmonization documents for this variable are:
- Harmonization table
- No supplemental programming
- Instructions for interpreting harmonization documents
Description
RACEUS identifies the "race" of the respondent in the United States. Race is a social construct, not a scientific or anthropological concept. Many detailed categories consist of national origin groups.
Comparability — General
The 1990-2020 samples are much more detailed than the earlier ones. Beginning in 2000, the race question changed substantially to allow respondents to report as many races as they felt necessary to describe themselves. In earlier years, only one race response was reported.
The 1850-1880 and 1910 samples identify black-white mixed race ("mulatto") persons. They are coded as a subcategory of "black" in that period.
Universe
- All persons
Availability
- United States: 1850a, 1850b, 1860, 1870, 1880a, 1880b, 1900, 1910, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2020
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