Smiley Face (America Smiles)
During the 1970s, the yellow smiley face became an omnipresent symbol of
happiness and good cheer. This perky design appealed to all ages and appeared on
everything from buttons and cookie jars to neckties and sleeping bags.
"Sesame Street"
Created for public TV by Children's Television Workshop, "Sesame Street"
revolutionized children's TV by combining entertainment and education. It helps
children worldwide learn about letters, numbers, and getting along with others.
Disco Music
Powered by strong beats on records spun by disc jockeys, disco music got
Americans dancing in the 1970s. Dressed up in polyester and silk, people
"boogied" at nightclubs beneath colored strobe lights and mirrored balls.
Earth Day Celebrated
The first nationwide Earth Day was held April 22, 1970. Celebrated with marches,
speeches, planting and cleanup projects, it raises awareness of environmental
issues, promotes conservation efforts, and encourages respect for the Earth.
Bicentennial (U.S. Celebrates 200th Birthday)
The United States of America celebrated it 200th birthday on July 4, 1976.
Crowds of people gathered to enjoy a grand procession of sailing ships in New
York Harbor, a naturalization ceremony in Chicago, and fireworks from coast to
coast.
Women's Rights Movement
The women's rights movement mobilized to secure women's equality, their
political and economic empowerment, and respect for their human rights. The
United Nations Development Fund (UNIFEM) promoted these efforts worldwide.
"All in the Family" (TV Series)
Debuting in 1971, the innovative TV series "All in the Family" was the top-rated
show five consecutive seasons. Prejudiced Archie, kindhearted Edith, and liberal
Mike and Gloria lit verbal fireworks over subjects previously taboo.
"Monday Night Football"
First broadcast in September 1970, ABC's "Monday Night Football" brings a mix of
sports and show business to prime-time television. The banter among the
announcers is often one of the highlights of the show.
Pittsburgh Steelers (Steelers Win Four Super Bowls)
Winning four Super Bowls, the Pittsburgh Steelers dominated pro football in the
second half of the '70s. Their explosive offense and defense, including the
"Steel Curtain," featured several future members of the Pro Football Hall of
Fame.
Secretariat Wins Triple Crown
In 1972, two-year-old Secretariat was named Horse of the Year. In 1973, he won
the coveted Triple Crown, including the only less-than-two-minute Kentucky Derby
victory and a 31-length Belmont Stakes triumph.
Jumbo Jets
In 1970, Boeing introduced the world's first jumbo jet. These state-of-the-art
airplanes greatly increased passenger capacity and flew some 6,000 miles without
refueling, allowing for more convenient international travel.
VCRs Transform Entertainment
Videocassette recorders (VCRs) for home use took off with the introduction of
Betamax and Video Home System (VHS) machines in the mid-1970s. VCR users can
watch movies at home and record TV programs for later viewing.
Medical Imaging
Medical imaging techniques advanced significantly with the development of
ultrasound, CAT scans, and MRI technology. These noninvasive procedures improved
doctors' ability to see inside the human body.
"Pioneer 10"
Launched March 1972, "Pioneer 10" was the first spacecraft to travel to Jupiter
and send back data and images. Eleven years later, it became the first man-made
object to leave the solar system.
1970s Fashion
Freedom and experimentation guided 1970s fashion. It was a time of leisure
suits, bell-bottoms and designer jeans, miniskirts and hot pants, platform
shoes, and long hair. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, became popular.
