Why Is the Baby Boomer Generation Defined from 1946 to 1964 Instead of Including 1945?
The commonly accepted definition of the baby boomer generation is individuals born between 1946 and 1964. However, one might wonder why a year has been excluded from this definition, particularly since the birth rate spike in 1945 also fits the same criteria. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this discrepancy.
The End of World War II and the Increase in Birth Rates
The end of World War II in Europe was marked by the surrender of Germany in May 1945, followed by the formal surrender of Japan in August 1945. The war saw millions of young men serving overseas, and post-war conditions created an environment ripe for increased reproductive activity. This is why some people argue that 1945 also fits the criteria for the baby boomer generation.
Even though the war officially ended in September 1945, many servicemen returned home by October. If we assume that some soldiers returned home as early as October 1945, it is reasonable to believe that the first baby boomers could have been born shortly after. The logic is straightforward: if the war ended in September 1945 and soldiers were returning home in October, why should 1946 start the official count?
Theoretical 'Boom' After World War II
Many have pointed out that the baby boom was primarily a result of soldiers returning home after World War II and making up for lost time. If the war ended in September 1945, it would stand to reason that the boom in births should begin immediately following the return of soldiers.
For many scholars and statisticians, the beginning of the baby boom is considered to be in the second half of 1946. This is because the usual timeframe for a baby to be born after conception is about 9 months. Therefore, if the war ended in September 1945, it is likely that the first conception would have taken place by October, leading to babies being born in late 1946 or early 1947. Hence, the official start of the baby boomer generation in 1946 is a natural extension of this timeline.
Arbitrary Definitions and the Evolution of Generational Categorization
The definition of the baby boomer generation is, in fact, arbitrary. Naming generations is a concept created to ease categorization and provide a broader, more general overview of a demographic group's characteristics and experiences. These labels do not hold quantifiable value or meaning beyond grouping people for social, cultural, and statistical research.
There have been several generations defined in modern history, each with its own unique characteristics and defining moments. For example, the Silent Generation is typically defined as those born between 1925 and 1945, while Generation X is often considered those born between the mid-1960s and the early 1980s. The millennials, or Generation Y, include those born between the early 1980s and the late 1990s, followed by Generation Z, born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s.
These definitions are based on societal, economic, and cultural shifts rather than precise birth dates. The reasons behind these definitions often include significant historical events, technological advancements, and social changes. For instance, the 'baby boomer' label reflects the post-war economic boom and demographic surge in the United States, highlighting the significant increase in birth rates during this period.
Conclusion
While 1945 could be argued as the start of the baby boomer generation based on the return of soldiers and the post-war increase in birth rates, the official definition begins with 1946 due to the consideration of 9-month gestation periods and the natural timeline of the baby boom. The defining of generations is a social construct designed for convenience and ease of categorization, rather than a scientifically precise designation. Therefore, the exclusion of 1945 from the baby boomer generation is not due to any inherent reason but is a deliberate choice to maintain consistency and align with historical data.