Published: February 11, 2011

U.S. Census Bureau Daily Feature for February 12

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Following is the daily "Profile America" feature from the U.S. Census Bureau:

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12: VAMPIRE AT 80

Profile America -- Saturday, February 12th. On this date 80 years ago, one of the classic horror films of all time was released -- "Dracula," starring Bela Lugosi. It was the first talking picture horror film, and one that defined both the genre of vampire films, and the acting career of its star. Though widely hailed for his portrayal of Count Dracula, Lugosi found himself typecast and was only able to find parts in horror films for the rest of his career. When he died in 1956, he was buried at his request wearing his Dracula cape. In 1931, when "Dracula" was released, the Great Depression was gripping the U.S. and movie theaters took in $719 million in ticket sales. Now, going to the movies is more than a $7.5 billion dollar a year business. You can find these and more facts about America from the U.S. Census Bureau, online at www.census.gov.

Sources: Chase's Calendar of Events 2011, p. 126

Historical Statistics of the United States: Colonial Times to 1970, p. 400

Statistical Abstract of the United States 2011, t. 1138

Profile America is produced by the Public Information Office of the U.S. Census Bureau. These daily features are available as produced segments, ready to air, on a monthly CD or on the Internet at http://www.census.gov (look for "Multimedia Gallery" by the "Newsroom" button).

SOURCE U.S. Census Bureau