Hollerith Tabulating System used for U.S. Census

Name: Hollerith Tabulating System used for U.S. Census
Start: 1890-09-12
Location: Washington D.C., United States

Herman Hollerith's electric tabulating machines successfully processed the 1890 U.S. Census data in record time, reducing the time for statistical compilation from years to months.

Significance

This marked the first large-scale, automated data processing project, proving the viability of using machines for statistical analysis and reporting, laying the groundwork for modern data tools.

Key facts

Date: 1890-09-12
Type: milestone
Location: Washington D.C., United States