Born 1956

Your life in history

Every milestone of your life happened in a historical year. Here they are, side by side.

1. 1956

   You were born

2. 1961

   You turned 5

3. 1966

   You turned 10

4. 1969

   You turned 13

5. 1972

   You turned 16

6. 1974

   You turned 18

7. 1977

   You turned 21

8. 1986

   You turned 30

9. 1996

   You turned 40

10. 2006

    You turned 50

11. 2016

    You turned 60

12. 2026

    You turned 70

Historical notes appear for years we've filled in so far — more are being added all the time.

Keep exploring

• See the world you were born into →

  The full picture for 1956 — music, movies, technology and more.

• What was the world like when you turned 18? →

  The year 1974, through fresh eyes.

• Things that are younger than you →

  From the NHS to the iPhone — how much arrived after you did?

• Compare 1956 with 1998 →

  Two birth years, side by side. Try it with family.