The book progresses historically, examining early census efforts before exploring the development of modern methods in England, France, and the United States. It then analyzes the political ramifications, such as gerrymandering, and the societal impact on healthcare, education, and housing.
By challenging the unquestioned authority of official statistics, Census History encourages a critical examination of how population data is collected, interpreted, and utilized, making it a valuable resource for understanding the intersection of data, governance, and society.