Is there a difference between microservices and SOA? I've used architectures just like this in the past but never heard of "microservices" until recently.
AFAICT, "microservices" is exactly SOA in its original sense; my guess is the rename is because SOA has become so attached to particular XML-based implementations and standards (e.g., the WS-* series of standards).
No difference, just a new name. Not so bad I guess, however I fear it will cropper when vendors leap on the bandwagon again and start sell inappropriate tools and frameworks badged as Microservice and we can start the process of renaming again.