PIP: Fertility and the number of births have experienced an upturn since 1977. The baby boom generation comprises 1/3 of the U.S. population and it is the most influential age group in this country. Opinions differ as to what year constitutes the beginning of the baby boom; however, this author maintains that 1947 marked the beginning because the fertility rate rose sharply that year. It was in full swing by 1951. Between 1954-64, over 4 million babies were born each year, and during the decade 1955-64, the U.S. recorded more births (42 million) than in any 10 year period. This boom ended in 1965 when fertility rates and the number of births declined abruptly. Interestingly, rates continued to decline until 1976 when fertility hit a record low of 65.8 births/1000 women of childbearing age. The following year, fertility rates and the number of births rose slightly but not enough to forecast another baby boom. These rates have continued to stay up because products of the 1st baby boom are now of childbearing age. During the 1980's, the baby boom will enter middle age with the results being that the 30-34 age group will grow 24%, the 35-39 group will grow 41%, and the 40-44 year olds will increase 50%. Teenagers and young adults will become scarce. There are now about an equal number of male and female baby boomers. They are more in evidence in the West. Various other characteristics are described. More women from the baby boom are employed and their educational levels are rising. Household income for baby boomers is slightly below average. As members of this group grow older, they wil move into higher income brackets. In fact, some economic experts anticipate good times because this generation will enter their peak earning years. A short bibliography of relevant articles and monographs is included at the end.