Are you confused about the terms Gen X, Gen Y, Gen Z, etc., and can’t really differentiate them? Then, this article is for you. People born in different decades are categorized into different generations based on their birth year. A generation is a group of people born roughly within 20 years time interval. Different generations have their unique characteristics, principles, styles, and value systems.
In this article, we’ll explore the definition of different generations with their key characteristics. Which generation do you belong to?
Generations
Lost Generation
1880-1900
- Born between 1880 and 1900
- Fought in World War I
- The term “lost” came from the sense of hopelessness, confusion, aimlessness, and lack of direction because of the war.
Greatest Generation
1901-1927
- Born between 1901 and 1927
- Also known as the G.I. generation. G.I. stands for government issue or general issue.
- Grew up during the great depression (1929-1939)
- Fought in World War II. Also called the WWII generation.
- Saw rapid innovation in technology
- Hard work and grit. Moralistic attitude.
Silent Generation
1928-1945
- Born between 1928 and 1945
- They are called silent for accepting government rather than going against it
- Better education
- Strong work ethic
Baby Boomers
1946-1964
- Born between 1946 and 1964
- Post World War II, prosperity resulted in baby boom and hence the name
- “Live to work” lifestyle
- Saw a dramatic social change
Gen X
1965-1979
- Born between 1965 to 1979
- Emphasis on education
- Self-reliance
- Focused on work-life balance
- Known for producing a very large number of entrepreneurs
Gen Y / Millenials
1980-1994
- Born between 1980 and 1994
- They are also called Millennials because they became adults at the turn of the millennium
- Often blamed as self-centric
- Saw the rise of the internet and experienced the great recession (2007-2009)
- Have familiarity with digital technology
- Higher rates of unemployment
Gen Z / iGen
1995-2009
- Born between 1995 and 2009
- They are also called Post-Millennials or iGeneration (iGen)
- Digital native generation. Connected with others through phones and social media.
- Fairly computer literate
- Seen as the most depressed generation
Gen A / Alpha
2010-2024
- Born between 2010 and 2024. Born entirely during the 21st century.
- They are also called generation Alpha
- Raised in homes with smart devices everywhere
- Prediction says they will be the most formally educated and wealthiest generation.
Differences Between Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y, Gen Z, and Gen A
Be The First
Join our list to get instant access to new articles and weekly newsletter.
