Final answer:
The student's question discusses the significant decline in homicide rates in the U.S. from 1991 to 2013, the misconception of crime rates among the public, and the high incarceration rate in the U.S. compared to other industrialized countries. It also touches upon the safety trends in law enforcement, showing that police work-related fatalities have decreased over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Homicide Rates and Crime Trends in the U.S.
The question pertains to the trends of homicide rates and overall crime statistics in the United States. It is observed that the highest homicide rate recorded in U.S. history was in 1991, with 9.8 per 100,000 persons or 24,700 murders.
Since 1991, this number has declined significantly to 4.5 per 100,000 persons, or 14,196 murders by the year 2013. This indicates a downward trend in violent crimes over the past few decades, contrary to the public perception that crime rates may be higher or worsening.
Furthermore, the discussion of the incarceration rate in the U.S. highlights another significant statistic. The U.S. has the highest rate of imprisonment in the world, incarcerating over 700 persons per 100,000, which is much higher compared to other highly industrialized nations that have rates between 50 and 100 persons per 100,000. Despite this high rate of incarceration, many Americans are unaware of the decreased rates of crime, particularly violent and gun-related crimes.
The topic also touches on law enforcement safety and national figures for police work-related deaths, showing a decrease in hazards encountered in the line of duty over the past several decades. This aspect provides a different perspective on the overall safety and challenges faced by the police force in the United States.