Born 1978

Your life in history

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

1. 1978

   You were born

2. 1983

   You turned 5

3. 1988

   You turned 10

4. 1991

   You turned 13

5. 1994

   You turned 16

   Nelson Mandela became President — On 10 May 1994, South Africa’s first fully democratic elections made Mandela president.

6. 1996

   You turned 18

7. 1999

   You turned 21

8. 2008

   You turned 30

9. 2018

   You turned 40

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 1978 — music, movies, technology and more.

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

  The year 1996, through fresh eyes.

• Things that are younger than you →

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

• Compare 1978 with 1998 →

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