The American Midwest

Using data from the 2000 Census, this collection examines the major demographic and employment trends in the rural Midwestern states with special attention to the issues that state and local policy makers must address in the near future.

Norman Walzer

I: Overview; 1: Introduction and Overview; 2: The Changing Population of the Midwest; II: Major Issues and Concerns; 3: Growth, Diversity, and Aging in the Midwest; 4: Population Trends and Impact on Viability; 5: Global Challenges and Opportunities for Midwest Farmers; 6: The Role of Agriculture in the Midwest Economy; III: Possible Remedies; 7: Making the Case for Value-Added Agriculture in Economic Development; 8: Rural Knowledge Clusters; 9: Strengthening Local Rural Economies Through Entrepreneurship; 10: The Internet-Based Economy and Rural Economic Competitiveness; 11: Financing Trends and Future Options for Rural Illinois and America; 12: Key Practices in Creating a Learning Community; 13: Looking Forward by Looking Back: State Approaches to Rural Development