Memphis set to become first major metro with a black majority

By R. Neal / January 9, 2007

In the interesting demographics department, Memphis is set to become the nation's first major metropolitan area with a black majority :

A good indication of what's to come can be gleaned from 2005 U.S. Census Bureau estimates that show the non-Hispanic white population in the eight-county Memphis metro area dipping below 50 percent for the first time.

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The numbers mean that while the non-Hispanic white population is still the largest group in terms of percentage, no single group makes up more than 50 percent of the total population - for now. If current birth-death and migration trends continue, blacks will claim the 50 percent-plus distinction.

A Memphis Commercial Appeal editorial comments on the social and political implications.

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