What Generation am I?
Discover your generational identity and uncover the unique characteristics, historical events, and cultural influences that define your generation.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made in building our calculator tools, we are not to be held liable for any damages or monetary losses arising out of or in connection with their use. Full disclaimer.
Your generational identity
We've designed our Generation Calculator to help you find out which generational group you belong to. Although date ranges can vary depending on where you look, we're using research from Pew Research Centre for older generations and Australian research firm McCrindle for Generation Alpha and Beta.
Generations represent unique cultures that are shaped by historical events, technological advancements, and shared experiences. Together, these elements help to shape and influence the generations that follow.
By learning more about your generational identity, you may find a better appreciation of your personal values and those of your peers. You may also gain more understanding of why you see the world in the way you do.
Find out your generation
Enter your birth year into our calculator, and we will tell you what generational group you belong to. Each generation has its own distinct characteristics and cultural identity. Here's a list of the generations we cover:
| Generation | Year born | Current ages |
|---|---|---|
| WWII | 1901-1927 | 99 – 125 |
| Post War | 1928 – 1945 | 81 – 98 |
| Boomers | 1946 – 1964 | 62 – 80 |
| Generation X | 1965 – 1980 | 46 – 61 |
| Millennials | 1981 – 1996 | 30 – 45 |
| Generation Z | 1997 – 2009 | 17 – 29 |
| Generation Alpha | 2010 – 2024 | 2 – 16 |
| Generation Beta | 2025 – 2039 | 1 – |
Let's dig into what each generation represents, starting with the WWII generation...
The WWII Generation (Born 1901-1927)
- Characteristics: Often referred to as the "Greatest Generation," this group is known for their resilience, having grown up during the Great Depression and fought or contributed significantly during World War II.
- Values: Strong sense of duty, sacrifice for the common good, and a commitment to hard work and perseverance.
- Cultural Impact: This generation played a crucial role in shaping the 20th century, laying the foundations for the modern world through their efforts in war and peace. They were instrumental in establishing post-war economic prosperity and societal norms.
- Historical Context: Members of this generation were shaped by profound events such as the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and World War II. Their experiences during these tumultuous times instilled in them a strong sense of national pride and collective responsibility.
The Post War (Born 1928-1945)
- Characteristics: Often referred to as the "Silent Generation", this group grew up during the Great Depression and World War II. This generation is characterized by their hardworking and disciplined nature.
- Values: Strong sense of community, respect for authority, and a commitment to saving and financial security.
- Cultural Impact: The Post War Generation witnessed the birth of television and the golden age of radio, which influenced their perspectives and experiences.
Boomers Generation (Born 1946-1964)
- Characteristics: The Baby Boom Generation were known for their optimistic outlook and work-centric attitude. Baby Boomers grew up during a time of economic prosperity and social change.
- Values: They value individualism, personal prosperity, and social activism.
- Cultural Impact: Boomers were the driving force behind cultural revolutions in the '60s and '70s, from civil rights movements to the rise of rock 'n' roll.
The Boomers Generation is often divided into two different groups due to their age range, with the older members of this generation holding different values and perspectives compared to the younger ones. In the United States, Generation Jones, often referred to as Boomers II, falls within an age range where they narrowly avoided being drafted into a war. 1
Generation X (Born 1965-1980)
- Characteristics: Often considered the "middle child" generation (or the "Bridge Generation"), Gen Xers are known for their independence, resourcefulness, and skepticism towards institutions.
- Values: They prioritize work-life balance, family values, and economic stability.
- Cultural Impact: Generation X witnessed the rise of personal computing, grunge music and the World Wide Web.
Millennials (Born 1981-1996)
- Characteristics: Tech-savvy, ambitious, and socially conscious, Millennials (or "Generation Y") grew up during the internet boom and are comfortable with rapid change.
- Values: They value diversity, social equality, and environmental sustainability.
- Cultural Impact: Millennials have been pivotal in the digital revolution, reshaping communication, media, and workplace dynamics.
Generation Z (Born 1997-2012)
- Characteristics: True digital natives, Gen Zers are known for their creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and progressive views.
- Values: They prioritize mental health, inclusivity, and authenticity.
- Cultural Impact: Growing up in a hyper-connected world, Gen Zers are influencing trends in social media, entertainment, and global activism.
Generation Alpha (Born 2013-2024)
- Characteristics: Sometimes referred to as mini-millennials, this generation was raised in the age of screens, with social media, smart devices, and constant digital connectivity from birth.
- Values: They have creativity, global awareness, humor and kindness. (ABC News)
- Cultural Impact: Shaped by remote learning (through the Covid pandemic), streaming media, and AI-driven platforms. Gen A will drive innovation in technology and digital culture whilst prioritising environmental sustainability and climate action.
Generation Beta (Born 2025-2039)
- Characteristics: This is the first generation to grow up in an AI-native world where artificial intelligence and automation are embedded in everyday life. Gen Beta Characteristics - McCrindle. They will face the challenge of transforming job markets and the influence of major technology companies on society.
- Values: AI fluency, hyperconnectivity, immersive experiences, borderless lifestyles, environmental consciousness, and fluid identities.
- Cultural Impact: Gen B will reshape education, work, and society through their native understanding of AI and technology as fundamental tools rather than innovations. They are predicted to be very environmentally conscious, with climate solutions and sustainability a primary concern, rather than an emerging issue.
Conclusion: Your place in history
We'll end our generations article with a final thought. Each of the different generations we've discussed has brought a unique blend of experiences, challenges, and development that have both shaped the people growing up and living within it, and have influenced the generations that have followed. A rich tapestry of history.
I think that being armed with more knowledge about the generations can help us bridge generational gaps and understand friends and family on a deeper level. Because, goodness knows, we need more love and understanding in our increasingly divided and polarized world.
Calculator created by Alastair Hazell.Article researched and written with AI assistance.
References
- Age range by generation - Beresford Research
- Defining generations - Pew Research Center
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