A number of factors contributed to this population growth, including:
- Post-war baby boom: The years following the end of World War II saw a dramatic increase in the birth rate in the US, known as the "baby boom". This was due to a combination of factors, including a strong economy, widespread optimism about the future, and the availability of affordable housing and healthcare.
- Improved healthcare and sanitation: The post-war years also saw significant improvements in healthcare and sanitation, leading to a decline in the infant mortality rate and an increase in life expectancy. This further contributed to the population growth.
- Immigration: Immigration played a role in the population growth as well, although to a lesser extent compared to the baby boom. During the 1950s and 1960s, there was a significant influx of immigrants from Europe, Asia, and Latin America to the United States.