Born 1981

Your life in history

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

1. 1981

   You were born

2. 1986

   You turned 5

3. 1991

   You turned 10

4. 1994

   You turned 13

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

5. 1997

   You turned 16

6. 1999

   You turned 18

7. 2002

   You turned 21

8. 2011

   You turned 30

9. 2021

   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 1981 — music, movies, technology and more.

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

  The year 1999, through fresh eyes.

• Things that are younger than you →

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

• Compare 1981 with 1998 →

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