Born 1969

Your life in history

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

1. 1969

   You were born

2. 1974

   You turned 5

3. 1979

   You turned 10

4. 1982

   You turned 13

5. 1985

   You turned 16

   Live Aid united the world — On 13 July 1985, concerts in London and Philadelphia raised millions for famine relief — and Queen stole the show.

6. 1987

   You turned 18

7. 1990

   You turned 21

   Margaret Thatcher resigned — After eleven years in power, the Prime Minister stood down on 22 November 1990.

8. 1999

   You turned 30

9. 2009

   You turned 40

10. 2019

    You turned 50

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 1969 — music, movies, technology and more.

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

  The year 1987, through fresh eyes.

• Things that are younger than you →

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

• Compare 1969 with 1998 →

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