Now vs. Then

Ever wonder what it was really like in the 1600's, 1700's, 1800's?   What about 30 years from now?  Today it is the topic in the back of my mind.
Chances are I would not have survived if I had been born in one of the earlier centuries. 
Of course I may not survive in the world 30 years from now.  That does not stop me from pondering what it may be or may have been like.