Calculating the Age of a Person Born in 1935
The calculation for determining the age of someone born in 1935 is straightforward: subtract the birth year from the current year. However, whether the individual's birthday has passed in the current year is a crucial factor.
- If their birthday has already occurred in 2025, they are 90 years old (2025 - 1935). For instance, if their birthday was in February, they would be 90 in September 2025.
- If their birthday has not yet occurred in 2025, they are 89 years old ((2025 - 1935) - 1). For example, if their birthday is in November, they would still be 89 in September and turn 90 later in the year.
This method provides an accurate age when the current date and full birthdate are known.
The Silent Generation: Living Through Historic Change
People born in 1935 are part of the Silent Generation, typically defined as those born between 1928 and 1945. This generation's formative years were significantly influenced by historical events, distinguishing them from preceding and succeeding generations. They are often characterized by traits such as being hardworking, cautious, and conformist due to their experiences during global turmoil.
Their lives were shaped by several key events:
- The Great Depression: Growing up during economic hardship instilled a sense of frugality.
- World War II: Although mostly too young to serve, the war significantly impacted their youth and perspective.
- The Cold War: Coming of age during this era fostered a desire for stability.
- Social Changes: Members of this generation played important roles in social movements, including the Civil Rights movement.
A Lifetime of Milestones: Then vs. Now
Significant life milestones and life expectancy have changed considerably since 1935. The following table highlights some of these differences between someone born in 1935 and someone born later.
| Feature | Person Born in 1935 (Silent Generation) | Person Born in 1995 (Millennial) |
|---|---|---|
| Childhood Economic Context | Great Depression and World War II, characterized by scarcity and thrift. | Relatively prosperous and stable, growing up in the '90s. |
| Major World Conflicts | Witnessed WWII from home; came of age during the Cold War and Korean War. | Came of age during the post-9/11 'War on Terror' era. |
| Key Social Movements | Formative period during the Civil Rights movement and emergence of Rock and Roll. | Experienced the rise of globalization, internet culture, and social media activism. |
| Early Technology Exposure | Radio and black-and-white television were the primary forms of mass media. | Grew up with the internet, mobile phones, and personal computers. |
| Education and Careers | Often pursued stability, with many staying at one company for their entire career. | Experienced more job mobility and are more likely to change careers multiple times. |
| Life Expectancy at Birth | Average life expectancy was around 61 years in the U.S.. | Expected life expectancy is significantly higher, above 75 years. |
Conclusion
As of 2025, individuals born in 1935 are 89 or 90 years old and belong to the Silent Generation. This generation lived through major historical events, including economic depressions and world wars, as well as significant social changes. Their experiences contributed to their reputation for resilience, caution, and a respect for tradition, while also participating in cultural and social movements. Their lives demonstrate the human ability to adapt and persevere through immense change, connecting the early 20th century to later technological advancements.
For further reading on the Silent Generation and their historical context:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I quickly figure out if someone born in 1935 is 89 or 90 this year?
A: Compare their birth month to the current month. If their birthday has passed, they are 90; otherwise, they are 89.
Q: What were some key events in 1935?
A: Key events in 1935 include the signing of the Social Security Act, the conviction in the Lindbergh kidnapping trial, the first can of beer sale, and the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Q: What generation is a person born in 1935 considered part of?
A: A person born in 1935 is part of the Silent Generation (1928-1945).
Q: Did people born in 1935 fight in World War II?
A: They were too young to have served in WWII, being children during the war and coming of age in the postwar period.
Q: What was life expectancy like for someone born in 1935?
A: In 1935, average life expectancy at birth in the U.S. was around 61 years, lower than today due to factors like higher infant mortality.
Q: What was the economy like when the Silent Generation came of age?
A: They came of age during the post-WWII economic boom, in contrast to their childhood during the Great Depression, which influenced their financial habits.
Q: What cultural trends influenced people born in 1935?
A: This generation was influenced by swing jazz, Hollywood films, and later, the emergence of Rock and Roll in the 1950s and 60s.
