2010 U.S. Census: Hispanic Population by County

This map, titled Hispanic or Latino Population as a Percent of Total Population by County (2010), is a choropleth visualization created by the U.S. Census Bureau, drawn from the 2010 Census Summary File 1. It uses a purple gradient to represent Hispanic population percentages by county, clearly showing population distribution across the U.S., with inset maps for Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Utilizing 19th-century statistical mapping techniques like those of Charles Dupin and Francis Walker, the map blends Victorian-era data visualization principles with modern design elements, showcasing Hispanic demographic data in an impactful, accessible manner.

The map is significant in representing Latino identity within the U.S., as it reveals both high-density regions and areas of diverse settlement that challenge common assumptions about Latino populations. Its innovative design, including the use of purple shading and clear data segmentation, made it an influential template for later demographic maps, impacting public policy and social understanding of Latino demographics.