How long did it take the US to take a count of the census prior to 1880?

The correct choice reflects the historical context of the United States Census process prior to 1880. The U.S. Constitution mandates that a census be conducted every ten years. However, prior to 1880, there were significant delays and complications in the counting process. While the official census was recorded every decade, the counting itself and the processing of data sometimes extended beyond the intended timeframe, particularly in earlier decades when records were not as meticulously maintained and administrative capabilities were limited.

The procedure used in the earlier years required more time to gather, compile, and publish the data, leading to periods where the total duration of the census counting process could be interpreted as spanning longer than just ten years. This broader context helps to understand why a count could effectively be viewed as taking around 13 years, considering operation complexities and delays in data processing during those times.

The other options suggest shorter time frames, which do not accurately reflect the historical challenges faced by census officials in the earlier periods of U.S. history.