As a cultural and historical expert with a focus on demographics, I can provide you with an informed response regarding the population of Native Americans in the United States.

The Native American population in the United States has been a subject of significant interest and study. It's important to note that the numbers can vary depending on the source and the methodology used for counting. However, I can offer an overview based on the most recent and reliable data available.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Native American population has been growing steadily over the past few decades. As of the 2010 Census, there were approximately 5.2 million people who identified as American Indian or Alaska Native alone or in combination with one or more other races. This number has increased from the 4.1 million individuals reported in the 2000 Census. This growth indicates that Native Americans are now a slightly larger minority, comprising 1.7 percent of the population in 2010, up from 1.5 percent in 2000.

It is also important to recognize that the Native American population is not homogenous and is comprised of many different tribes and communities, each with its own unique culture, history, and social dynamics. The distribution of this population across the United States is also varied, with some areas having a higher concentration of Native Americans than others.

Furthermore, it is crucial to understand that the process of counting and identifying Native Americans in the United States has been historically fraught with challenges. Issues such as undercounting, misidentification, and the complexities of tribal affiliations have all played a role in shaping the demographic data we have today.

In addition to the challenges in data collection, there are also ongoing discussions and debates about the best ways to represent and respect the diversity and sovereignty of Native American communities within the context of U.S. federal policies and programs.

Moving forward, it is expected that the Native American population will continue to grow, and efforts to improve the accuracy and inclusivity of demographic data will be essential. This will involve continued collaboration between tribal communities, researchers, policymakers, and the Census Bureau to ensure that the voices and identities of Native Americans are accurately reflected in the data.

In conclusion, while the exact number of Native Americans in the United States may fluctuate, the general trend points towards a growing population that is becoming an increasingly significant part of the nation's demographic landscape. It is a population that carries with it a rich cultural heritage and a history that is integral to the story of America.

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This means Natives are now a slightly larger minority, comprising 1.7 percent of the population versus 1.5 in 2000. There were 5.2 million American Indians in the county in 2010, compared to 4.1 million in 2000.Jan 30, 2012read more >>