Progress and Challenges in Reducing Economic Distress in Appalachia: An Analysis of National and Regional Trends Since 1960

This report analyzes changes in the number of distressed counties in Appalachia and the entire United States for the census years 1960, 1970, 1980, and 1990, based on the Appalachian Regional Commission's current distress measure. By determining the total number of distressed counties in the entire United States, this research provides an historical benchmark for socioeconomic conditions in Appalachia relative to the rest of the nation.