The collection of census-type statistical data by the United States Government actually began with the first Decennial Census (1790), within a year after George Washington became President. This first census and the subsequent decennial censuses were authorized in the Constitution (Article I, Section 2), which specified that "the actual enumeration shall be made within three years after the first meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent term of ten years, in such a manner as they shall by law direct."

The 1790 and 1800 censuses were confined to a few basic population inquiries (name, race, sex, and age). The prime reason for taking these censuses was to apportion Congressional representatives and direct taxes among the States, with little consideration of providing for any systematic collection of statistical data for Government or private use. There was no substantial need for the Government to collect economic statistics because agriculture was by far the most important occupation of the American people and because the duties and powers of the Federal Establishment were narrowly defined by most political leaders.