Final answer:
In the 1980s and 1990s, violent crime was most common in Latin America and Africa, with significant issues also occurring in the United States due to demographic shifts and the rise of crack cocaine. Despite a decline in crime rates since the early 1990s, U.S. citizens often perceive crime to be worsening.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the 1980s and 1990s, violent crime was most common in Latin America and Africa, with Europe and East Asia having lower rates. In the United States, a significant climb in violent crime during this period was linked to demographic changes, notably the large population of males aged sixteen to thirty-six, and the emergence of crack cocaine. The intense crackdown on drug-related offenses leading to the 'war on drugs' campaign also highlighted the issue.
Comparatively, in the United States, the vast availability of firearms resulted in a higher frequency of very violent gun-related crimes, contrasting with their European counterparts. The country experienced a peak in violent crime rates in the early 1990s before seeing a decline, despite public perception often believing otherwise. It's noteworthy that there exists a correlation between education levels and higher crime rates within communities as well.