Burnt Generation

Burnt Generation is a term used to describe a generation born between 1963 to 1975 in Iran that were affected most by the 1979 revolution, Iran—Iraq war and political or social consequences. This generation resonates with generation X in the western world.

They were born at a time when the middle class had the majority, higher education was extremely valued and hard work would promise a bright future.

Burnt Gen. shaped their future dreams based on their parents’ values and lifestyle. These values described success, convenience and social acceptance as simply achievable goals through hard work and right education.Their parents, a Baby Boomers generation like, had rebuilt the country after World War II, established public education and women’s liberation rights, nationalized the oil industry, and enhanced the health system for public. Although, there was a growing dissatisfaction with the government and Shah’s approach to a variety of political and social issues which caused the 1979 revolution. The public assumption was that those issues would be resolved when the new changes take place through a democratic system.

After Shah’s exile, the clash between various political groups and new government created a suspicious environment that deeply affected the believes and values of Burnt Gen. They are marked by lack of optimism for the future, nihilism, cynicism, skepticism, political apathy, alienation and distrust in traditional values and institutions which describe the similarities between Gen X and Burnt Gen.

Another important event that influenced this generation was shutting down colleges and universities for several years. After reopening, every applicant had to pass an interview with the government approved committees and women were allowed to apply for certain limited majors. At that time, many of Burnt Gen. ranged between 13 and 25 year old, were fighting in the war front. Iraq invaded Iran in 1980 and the war lasted for 8 years with 1 million casualties from both sides.

As a result of growing up in that environment, they either have strong religious believes or completely distrustful to religion and God. Some believe in God but disconnect themselves from any religious believes or groups. Their most common values include loyalty to family and friends, compassion, and high work ethics.

The uncertainties of their future, either for those who lived in Iran or elsewhere, leave a deep sense of insecurity in Burnt Gen., whose perspective of the future is what you can make of just anything today.