1980s: By the middle of the decade, Canada's population stands at about 26 million. Of this, about 18 million Canadians are married.

Today: The population of Canada is about 31 million. Of this, 14.5 million Canadians are married.

1980s: In 1981, 8.2 million Canadians live in private dwellings. The average private household has 2.9 members.

Today: In 1996, 10.8 million Canadians live in private dwellings. The average private household has 2.6 members.

1980s: By the end of the 1980s, female workers earn an average of 59 percent of what male workers earn.

Today: In 1998, female workers earn an average of 64 percent of what male workers earn.

1980s: By the end of the 1980s, among husband-wife families, 62.8 percent are dual-earner families, 22.8 percent are single-earner families, and 14.4 percent of families have neither spouse earning money.

Today: In 1998, among husband-wife families, 60.4 percent are dual-earner families, 22.5 are single-earner families, and 17.1 percent of families have neither spouse earning money.