Comparison of population growth in Brazil and the U.S. 1500-1998

In the five centuries between 1500 and 1998, the average annual population growth in Brazil and the U.S. was fairly similar at around one percent, although Brazil's growth was slightly higher. In contrast, the period before 1820 was also similar, but the U.S. had slightly more growth. However, it was during the shorter periods between 1820 and 1998 where the gaps were much greater. These variations can largely be attributed to differences in each country's respective demographic transition, as well as immigration policy; demographically, the U.S. developed much earlier than Brazil, therefore its population growth was highest in the 19^th century, while Brazil's was highest in the mid-20^th century.