On pages 4 and 5 of the Current Events Update, you'll find a feature titled "Indicators," a set of maps and graphs with population projections and data chronicling demographic changes that occurred during the 20th century. The graphics are packed with information, but what do all the statistics mean? Use this page to sharpen your skills in reading and interpreting graphics.

World Population

a. According to the graph on page 4, what is the current world population?

The Century

a. According to the data on page 5, what trend has occurred concerning America's most populous cities?

b. What was the biggest age group within the U.S. population in 1900? What is the largest group today?

c. In 1900, what was the leading cause of death in the U.S.? Where does this disease rank today?

d. What diseases that were leading causes of death for Americans in 1900 are no longer on the top 10 list?

e. Compare the cost of a first-class stamp in 1999 to the cost in 1900 (adjusting the 1900 cost for inflation). Which is more expensive? Explain.

f. Which items in the Cost of Living chart were more expensive in 1900 than they are today?

g. In the early part of the century, from where did the majority of immigrants to the U.S. come?

h. In 1998, what percentage of immigrants to the U.S. came from Asia? How has this percentage changed since the first decade of the century? What explains this shift?