Calculate Your Age and Discover What Happened in 1940

People born in 1940 would be 84 years old today. That means they've witnessed a remarkable 84 years of history unfold! Use our age calculator to see exactly how many days, weeks, or even months they've been alive! This year marked the pivotal Battle of Britain, a turning point in World War II. In 1940, the average life expectancy in the US was only 62 years old. Use our calculator to see how much lifespans have increased since then!

What Major Happened in 1940?

Below are 10 major events that happened in the year 1940 when you were 84 years old.

  1. The first McDonald's restaurant opened in San Bernardino, California.
  2. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Washington state collapsed due to wind-induced vibrations, earning it the nickname 'Galloping Gertie.'
  3. The animated film 'Fantasia' was released by Walt Disney Productions.
  4. The Battle of Britain took place, marking a significant turning point in World War II.
  5. John Lennon was born on October 9th in Liverpool, England.
  6. The first electron microscope was developed by Max Knoll and Ernst Ruska in Germany.
  7. The Soviet Union annexed the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.
  8. The first nylon stockings went on sale in the United States.
  9. Hattie McDaniel became the first African American to win an Academy Award for her role in 'Gone with the Wind.'
  10. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in the United States.

Find these facts interesting? Use our Calculate Age tool and discover more facts about your birth year and find your age.


Also Checkout, How Old Were You and What Happened in 1941?