Where and When Statistics Got Its Start

Many estimate the birth of modern-day statistics took place in 17th Century Europe.

Statistics are used today by professionals in nearly every industry. The science of statistics, which traces its origins to the 5th century, has undergone remarkable changes in the last 50 years. Thanks to new technologies, statistics are now more accurate and precise than they have ever been before. For law firm marketers, statistics provide a way to understand a given firm’s target client demographic.

Where were statistics first studied?

Historical evidence suggests that early mathematicians were using basic statistics and frequency analysis as early as the 5th century. However, many historians believe that the first use of statistics aimed at measuring population demographics was carried out in 17th century Europe. Facing major public health crises, a rise in crime and general overpopulation, government officials needed to gather information about their subjects so that they could put better health and policing systems into place. Statistical thought was expanded upon during the 18th century, when many of the formulas moderns statisticians use were discovered and perfected.

The ongoing importance of statistics

Statistics remained at the center of government calculations throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. In fact, today’s governments still use such calculations in order to make policy decisions. Of course, statistics can also be applied to specialized fields. A group of Washington County workers comp lawyers might use workplace injury statistics from their county in order to determine their target client demographic.

Statistics allow for the efficient and effective analysis of data. They can be used to predict consumer behavior or to set important political policies. The majority of today’s statisticians and marketing researchers use sophisticated computer programs that can run complex calculations in a matter of seconds. Law firm leaders who are interested in increasing the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns are well served by familiarizing themselves with statistics.