Increase in Life Expectancy from 1860 to 2020

Life expectancy in the United States has increased by 39.4 years, from 39.41 years in 1860 to 78.81 years in 2020.

Stagnation and Decrease in Recent Years

Life expectancy saw a slight decrease from 78.94 years in 2015 to 78.81 years in 2020, indicating stagnation or decline in recent years.

Significant Gains in the 20th Century

The 20th century witnessed substantial increases, with life expectancy rising from 47.3 years in 1900 to 76.47 years in 2000, an increase of nearly 29.17 years.

Impact of the 1918 Influenza Pandemic

A notable decline in life expectancy occurred around the 1918 influenza pandemic, dropping from 54.14 years in 1915 to 53.22 years in 1920.

Early 20th Century Improvements

Between 1900 and 1925, life expectancy increased by 9.97 years, from 48.19 years to 58.16 years, reflecting improvements in public health and medical advances.

Stability in the Late 19th Century

Life expectancy was relatively stable in the late 19th century, with only a slight increase from 39.41 years in 1870 to 44.05 years in 1890.

Rapid Increases After 1945

Post-World War II era, from 1945 to 1970, saw life expectancy jump from 64.71 years to 70.36 years, a gain of 5.65 years.

Decadal Growth in Life Expectancy

Every decade from 1860 to 2020, except for the period around the 1918 pandemic and the recent stagnation, witnessed an increase in life expectancy, highlighting continuous health improvements over time.