When we talk about zodiac signs, we often focus on the 12 Western constellation signs that pertain to the months of the year. Y'know – Aquarius, Cancer, Taurus, etc.
Today, though, we're going to explore the 12 Chinese animal zodiac signs.
The Chinese zodiac operates on a 12 year cycle, with each year being governed by a particular animal of significance to Buddhist mythology.
This system has been a part of Asian culture for thousands of years, providing individuals with everything from names for their children to information on compatibility with potential mates.
Which animal was your birth year governed by?
Take a look at the dates below, as reported by ChinaHighlights.com.
- Rat: 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960
- Ox: 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961
- Tiger: 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962
- Rabbit: 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963
- Dragon: 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964
- Snake: 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965
- Horse: 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966
- Goat: 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967
- Monkey: 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968
- Rooster: 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969
- Dog: 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970
- Pig: 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971