Was the 70s the Best Era to Be a Teenager?

There isn’t a singular era where the experience of teenage hood was “the best.” There are certain aspects of adolescence, such as raging hormones, rebellion, and questionable clothing choices, that are rehashed with every generation of teenagers in every era. This article explores the unique characteristics of the 1970s and whether it can be considered the best era for teenagers.

California of the 1970s

The 1970s in California stand out as a particularly distinctive period. Even in comparison to the East Coast, California was substantially less crowded. To put it into perspective, California seemed half as populated as even the East Coast. This relative emptiness created a unique social and cultural environment. However, it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. People were constantly living with the threat of serial killers and rapists, which left a lasting impact on those who experienced it.

Despite the fears, the 1970s in California saw significant social changes. One of the most crucial was the elimination of lead in gasoline. This seemingly minor change had a profound impact, contributing to a massive reduction in violent crime. According to research, the reduction in violent crime in the 1990s was partly due to the earlier reduction in lead levels in the 1970s. DNA testing, which is often cited as a reason for the decline, played a minimal role in this outcome. The death penalty, which was widely used during this era, did not serve as an effective deterrent either.

Fortress New York: A Comparison

When compared to New York, life in California was relatively peaceful. New York in the 1970s was marked by severe gang violence. It was a stark contrast to California, where violence seemed almost unimaginable. The cultural differences between the cities were immense. New York was a place of intense and often violent confrontation, while California was a haven of relative peace.

The Generation Gap

The 1970s also saw the emergence of the generation gap, a significant shift in parental and child relationships. My father, who grew up listening to 50s doo-wop, listened to completely different music than I did. I was raised on punk bands like the Sex Pistols and The Clash, which were popular in New York. This change in musical tastes was just the tip of the iceberg. The cultural divide between generations was deep and wide, defining the essence of the 1970s.

Advantages and Opportunities in the 1970s

Despite the challenges, the 1970s offered some significant advantages. One of the most notable was the early onset of independence among teenagers. I, for example, left the house the minute I graduated high school. This early adulthood allowed for a robust sense of self and independence. In contrast, today’s teenagers often delay entering the workforce, living at home until their late twenties and even beyond.

The job market in the 1970s was also more robust. Even as I approach retirement, there is a strong demand for my skills. This offer a level of financial security and job satisfaction that many of today’s young adults might envy. I have never had so much opportunity, and I intend to keep working until I’m 70. The 1970s provided a unique blend of challenges and opportunities, which gave the era a distinct flavor that some might consider the best for teenagers.

Conclusion: While the 1970s undoubtedly had its fair share of challenges, it also offered a distinct cultural and social environment that some might consider the best for teenagers. The relative peace, early independence, and strong job market all contributed to a unique era for youthful development. Whether you think the 1970s were the best era to be a teenager or not, one thing is certain: every generation has its own unique strengths and challenges.