FABRIC velvet Year of the Rat: 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020 People born under the sign of the rat are charming and assertive. They may appear to be peaceful souls, but behind their serene exterior lies strife and moodiness, and they could be anxious. Rats have many acquaintances but few friends, for the simple reason that they don’t trust anyone. It is hard for them to be open with their feelings.