1994
Nelson Mandela became President
On 10 May 1994, South Africa’s first fully democratic elections made Mandela president.
1994
The world of 1994
How much of this do you remember — or not?
1994
The Channel Tunnel opened
On 6 May 1994, the Queen and President Mitterrand opened the link between Britain and France.
1994
The National Lottery launched
The first draw on 19 November 1994 made instant millionaires — "It could be you".
1994
Kurt Cobain died
The Nirvana frontman died in April 1994, aged 27, as grunge gave way to Britpop.
Keep exploring
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What was the world like when you turned 18? →
The year 2012, through fresh eyes.
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Things that are younger than you →
From the NHS to the iPhone — how much arrived after you did?
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Your life in history →
A timeline of your milestones, matched with history.
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Compare 1994 with 1998 →
Two birth years, side by side. Try it with family.