Who are Gen X?

In today’s world, which has a constant discourse about Gen Z and the millennials, who is the Gen X generation? How are they different from the other generations, and what are their key characteristics? 

Apr 29, 2025, 04:27 EDT
Who are Gen X?
Who are Gen X?

Today’s world likes to talk about the differences between different generations. The fascination with these demarcations could be because there has been a drastic change in living habits and way of life due to the advent of technology and digital space, transitioning from the old ways of life. The most common term in recent times is ‘Gen Z’, which represents the newest wave of young adults shaping the future. This is the newest generation born from 1997 to 2012. This is the generation that has grown up with technology and the internet right from childhood, or well into adulthood.

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Who are Gen X? 

Generation X, commonly referred to as Gen X, includes people born between 1965 and 1980. This is the generation that witnessed the beginning of the first seeds of technology and its coming effects. They could be labelled as the “middle child” between the traditional, older generation and the future, millennial generation. Right from analog, classic watches to digital watches, elaborate architecture to simplified designs, maximalism to minimalism, they have witnessed it all. 

This generation grew up during a time of major societal changes, such as the rise of technology, economic shifts, and evolving family structures. Gen X is known for their independence, resilience, and adaptability. They witnessed the transition from analog to digital, making them highly resourceful and comfortable with both old and new ways of life.

Here is a list of generation names along with their birth years. 

Generation Name

Birth Years

The Greatest Generation

1901-1927

The Silent Generation

1925-1945

Baby Boomers

1946-1964

Generation X

1965-1980

Millennials (Generation Y)

1981-1996

Generation Z

1997-2012

Generation Alpha

2013-2025

Generation Beta

2025-2039

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Interesting Facts About Gen X

Here are some interesting facts about Generation X that you might have never heard of before. 

Post World War II Babies

Generation X was born after World War II. This historical fact implies that they grew up in an atmosphere where the world had already seen the harsher sides of life and humanity. The economy was in a harsher condition during their growing-up years. 

Latchkey Kid

They were known as latchkey kids. This term means that a door key was worn by Gen X kids around their necks that they would use to unlock their house doors and come to an empty house. They did not have any parents back at home until late at night to take care of them. This generation was the first to witness both parents working hard to sustain a livelihood outside the house, as earlier generations were used to seeing a stay-at-home mother. 

Pioneers of Technology

They were the first generation to grow up with computers and the early seeds of the Internet. They were often considered slackers by baby boomers because they felt that Gen X had gotten easy access to comfort in life. This is a constant feeling that each generation feels towards its next generation. 

Lesser Socio-Cultural Awareness

Gen X grew up in times when the sensitivity to issues regarding race, gender, and body image was not spoken of in a loud or vocal manner. The attitude normalised back then is called out for being racist, misogynistic, or body shaming by the current generation, Gen Z. Oftentimes, people defend Gen X on these parameters as “not knowing any better”. They were not educated about these things that require sensitivity, the same way that Gen Z grows up receiving. 

Ayukta Zisha
Ayukta Zisha

Content Writer

    Ayukta Zisha is a Content Writer and Published Author with a Master’s degree in English Literature. She also holds a certification in Digital Marketing from IIT Delhi. Deeply passionate about art, aesthetics, and literature, Ayukta brings a unique creative flair to her writing. A dedicated bibliophile, she continues to explore and share her love for words through engaging and insightful content. You can reach out to her at ayukta.zisha@jagrannewmedia.com

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