Born 1972

Your life in history

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

1. 1972

   You were born

2. 1977

   You turned 5

3. 1982

   You turned 10

4. 1985

   You turned 13

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

5. 1988

   You turned 16

6. 1990

   You turned 18

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

7. 1993

   You turned 21

8. 2002

   You turned 30

9. 2012

   You turned 40

10. 2022

    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 1972 — music, movies, technology and more.

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

  The year 1990, through fresh eyes.

• Things that are younger than you →

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

• Compare 1972 with 1998 →

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