1996 vs. 2012

Attribute	1996	2012
Technology	Emerging internet technologies	Advanced mobile technology
Popular Culture	Boy bands and grunge music	EDM and social media influencers
Politics	Bill Clinton re-elected as President	Barack Obama re-elected as President
Economy	Dot-com bubble begins	Global financial crisis recovery

Introduction

1996 and 2012 were two significant years in recent history, each with its own unique set of attributes that defined the era. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two years across various aspects such as technology, culture, politics, and economy. By examining the differences and similarities between 1996 and 2012, we can gain a better understanding of how society has evolved over time.

Technology

In 1996, the internet was still in its early stages, with dial-up connections being the norm for most households. Email was becoming increasingly popular, but social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter were still years away from being created. In contrast, by 2012, the internet had become an integral part of daily life, with high-speed broadband connections and smartphones revolutionizing how people communicate and access information. Social media had exploded in popularity, with millions of users sharing their lives online.

Culture

The culture of 1996 was heavily influenced by the music, fashion, and entertainment of the time. Pop music was dominating the charts, with artists like Spice Girls and Backstreet Boys ruling the airwaves. Fashion trends included baggy jeans, crop tops, and platform shoes. In 2012, the cultural landscape had shifted, with a greater emphasis on individuality and diversity. Hip-hop and electronic dance music were on the rise, and social media influencers were becoming the new celebrities.

Politics

1996 was a significant year in politics, with Bill Clinton being re-elected as President of the United States. The economy was booming, and the country was experiencing a period of relative peace and prosperity. In contrast, 2012 saw Barack Obama winning a second term in office, amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty and political polarization. The rise of social media also played a significant role in shaping political discourse and activism during this time.

Economy

The economy of 1996 was characterized by the dot-com bubble, with many internet companies experiencing rapid growth and valuation. However, this bubble would burst in the following years, leading to a recession. By 2012, the economy had recovered from the Great Recession, but the effects were still being felt by many Americans. The rise of technology companies like Apple and Google had transformed the business landscape, while globalization had led to increased competition and outsourcing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the attributes of 1996 and 2012 reflect the changing nature of society over time. While 1996 was a time of optimism and growth, 2012 was marked by uncertainty and upheaval. Technology, culture, politics, and economy all played a role in shaping these two distinct eras. By comparing the attributes of these years, we can gain valuable insights into how far we have come and where we may be headed in the future.