Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1525817
Generation X Born 1965–1980 Raised amidst change and upheaval, Generation X was shaped by the rise of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the prevalence of computers and video games, the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger, and the birth of the Internet. Parents of Gen Xers both worked, which wasn't typical of previous generations. Gen X kids would come home from school and let themselves into an empty house with their own keys. That's why they're also referred to as the "Latchkey Generation." Their unique upbringing contributed to Gen X's reputation for being independent, resourceful, and self-sufficient. Famous Figures: • Elon Musk, entrepreneur • J.K. Rowling, author • Jennifer Aniston, actress • Janet Jackson, singer • Tiger Woods, golfer Generation Y (Millennials) Born 1981–1996 Usually the kids of baby boomers, Generation Y is the largest generational group to date. Spending their developmental years in a period of technology and social media advancements, it's no surprise that millennials are tech-savvy. However, historical incidents like the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the invasion of Iraq also marked their formative years. This may be why they favor flexibility and a healthy work-life balance. What Generation Y went through as children, teens, and young adults has led them to be adaptive, creative, collaborative, and equality-minded. Famous Figures: • Cristiano Ronaldo, soccer player • Taylor Swift, singer • Serena Williams, tennis player • Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook founder • Prince William, Duke of Cambridge Generation Z (Zoomers) Born 1997–2012 The first generation to grow up in a completely digitized world, Gen Z was connected to current events from the second they were born. Smartphones and wearable tech were already part of daily life, and constant connectivity impacted how this cohort managed their digital presence. Monumental experiences that molded their personalities include the Great Recession, the election of Barack Obama to the presidency, and the mobilization of environmental awareness. With this, Gen Zers are pragmatic, eco-conscious, socially accepting, and well-educated. Famous Figures: • Billie Eilish, singer • Zendaya, actress • Greta Thunberg, activist • JoJo Siwa, singer • Timothee Chalamet, actor Generation Alpha Born 2013–2024 Still children, the biggest factor that will alter Generation Alphas' lives is the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic modified how people worked, communicated, traveled, and performed ordinary tasks like grocery shopping. Largely dependent on technology, this generation is the first to attend classes online and need tablet devices for school. Similarly, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) is sure to drive the future of this up-and-coming demographic. The only ones to be born entirely in the 21st century, Generation Alpha is the start of something new. Famous Figures: • Prince George, son of Prince Willliam • Nastya, YouTube star COMING HOME MAGAZINE 31