The 1970's


The 1970's opened with high inflation and an oil crisis. Nixon's presidency would never quite be a smooth ride, even though he did try. The Watergate scandal began in 1972 and eventually led to his resignation. When Nixon's vice president Ford was then in office, Nixon was granted a full pardon. This action lessened Ford's popularity, and he was the only president to have never been elected by the people, since he was appointed vice president when Nixon's resigned.

In 1976, the U.S. celebrated its bicentennial, or 200th birthday. The mood of unity and celebrating created by this occasion seemed to foretell a better future for Americans during the 70's.

Carter was elected in 1976, and though he had many troubles with the presidency at home, he would later win the Nobel Peace Prize for negotiating the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt. Laws were passed that guaranteed the Panama Canal being returned to Panama by 2000, while allowing the U.S. military to protect it. China was first recognized as a country in the 70's, and the SALT treaties improved relations with the Soviets. However with the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, relations again hit a new low as the U.S. halted grain shipments and boycotted the summer games held in Moscow. The Iranian Hostage Crisis lasted for 444 days until Reagan was elected.

Below is a short selection of songs from the 70's. Enjoy!

  • Don McLean - American Pie

  • Orleans - Still the One

  • Warren Zevon - Werewolves of London