You don't really need a high population to start with - a CoT will solve that nicely for you.
the Americas will be rich in trade, and if you can claim a good portion for yourself, with just one CoT to serve it, 30 to 50% population growth due to the CoT is well achievable.
the Americas will be rich in trade, and if you can claim a good portion for yourself, with just one CoT to serve it, 30 to 50% population growth due to the CoT is well achievable.