"The generation that twirled the first plastic hula hoops and dressed up the first Barbie dolls, embraced the TV age, blissed out at Woodstock and protested the Vietnam War the cohort that didn't trust anyone over age 30 now is contributing to the overall aging of America. Boomers becoming octogenarians in 2026 include actor Henry Winkler and baseball Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson, singers Cher and Dolly Parton and presidents Donald Trump, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton."
"America's population swelled with around 76 million births from 1946 to 1964, a spike magnified by couples reuniting after World War Two and enjoying postwar prosperity. Boomers were better educated and richer than previous generations, and they helped grow a consumer-driven economy. In their youth, they pushed for social change through the Civil Rights Movement, the women's rights movement and efforts to end the Vietnam War."
"We had rock n' roll. We were the first generation to get out and demonstrate in the streets. We were the first generation, that was, you know, a socially conscious generation, said Diane West, a metro Atlanta resident who turns 80 in January. Our parents played by the rules. We didn't necessarily play by the rules, and there were lots of us."
The oldest baby boomers turn 80 in 2026, including public figures such as Henry Winkler, Reggie Jackson, Cher, Dolly Parton and former presidents Trump, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton. U.S. births surged to about 76 million from 1946 to 1964, fueled by postwar reunions and prosperity. Boomers were more educated and wealthier than previous generations and helped expand a consumer-driven economy. In youth they led social movements — Civil Rights, women's rights and anti‑Vietnam War protests — and popularized rock'n'roll. Over time they gained a reputation for self-focus labeled the "me generation." By decade's end all boomers will be 65+, and the 80+ population will double within 20 years.
Read at www.bostonherald.com
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