Born 1974

Your life in history

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

1. 1974

   You were born

2. 1979

   You turned 5

3. 1984

   You turned 10

4. 1987

   You turned 13

5. 1990

   You turned 16

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

6. 1992

   You turned 18

7. 1995

   You turned 21

8. 2004

   You turned 30

9. 2014

   You turned 40

10. 2024

    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 1974 — music, movies, technology and more.

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

  The year 1992, through fresh eyes.

• Things that are younger than you →

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

• Compare 1974 with 1998 →

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