In 2006, the U.S. welcomed 4.3 million babies — the most in 45 years. Births were more common in almost every age, racial and ethnic group. Global data show the U.S. has a higher fertility rate — 2.1 — than every country in continental Europe, as well as Australia, Canada and Japan.
“This is very positive,” said Carrie Gordon Earll, senior analyst for bioethics at Focus on the Family Action. “To me, it says Americans are pro-child. And the fact that they continue to have children speaks to the resilience of the pro-life message.”
A larger population is the primary reason for the “baby boomlet,” but there also are more opportunities for mothers to work from home. It also is more common for American husbands to help with chores and child care than in other countries.
