The book explores the pivotal role of mortality data in transforming human life expectancy from 30 years in 1850 to nearly 80 years today. While often attributed to medical breakthroughs, it emphasizes the contributions of individuals who focused on collecting accurate data. By tracing the evolution of death registration systems in the U.S., including the introduction of the mortality census and death certificates, it argues that this data was essential for advancements in public health, casualty reporting, and the promotion of human rights.
