During 1970 to 2000, which region saw the greatest growth in population?

• A. Population in the Southwest increased more than anywhere else in the country.
• B. Population in the Great Plains increased more than in the Rocky Mountain states.
• C. Population in the mid-Atlantic region increased more than in the Southeast.
• D. Population in the Midwest declined more than anywhere else in the country.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is regional population shifts in the late 20th century, driven by people moving to places with job opportunities, affordable housing, and warmer climates. During 1970–2000, the Southwest experienced the fastest growth in population. Rapid expansion of major metro areas like Phoenix, Las Vegas, Houston, and Dallas–Fort Worth brought a large influx of people from other regions and continued high natural increase. In contrast, the Midwest and Great Plains saw slower growth and even declines in some areas due to manufacturing restructuring and aging populations. The Southeast did grow, but the scale and speed of growth in the Southwest were greater over this period, making it the region with the highest population increase.