The year 1970 was a time of dramatic shifts. It followed the idealistic but turbulent 1960s, leaving a sense of disillusionment in its wake. Gone were the flower power days of The Beatles and Woodstock. Instead, the nation grappled with the assassinations of iconic figures, the growing Vietnam War, and the shocking crimes of the Manson Family.
This backdrop set the stage for a decade filled with challenges. From geopolitical tensions and environmental concerns to the emergence of serial killers and the beginnings of a major political scandal, the 1970s offered a unique mix of darkness and light.
But amidst the turmoil, there was also incredible creativity. This article dives into the whirlwind that was 1970, exploring the news, culture, sports, and entertainment – including those unforgettable, and maybe even forgettable, solo Beatles albums.
1970: A Year Of Contradictions
1970 was a year marked by stark contrasts. The Civil Rights Movement had made significant strides, and the nation was still buzzing from Neil Armstrong’s moon landing. However, optimism was overshadowed by public disapproval of the Vietnam War, which had reached a fever pitch.
The year held a mix of potential threats and devastating realities. The continued development of nuclear weapons loomed large, while a violent incident by authorities would leave the nation shaken. Even space exploration, a source of earlier jubilation, wouldn’t be without its near-tragedy. And to top it all off, the music world mourned the breakup of a legendary band. It’s safe to say that 1970 wasn’t a year for the faint of heart.
A Tragic Start Of The Year For The Who (January 4)
1970 began on a deeply unfortunate note for The Who. Drummer Keith Moon, known for his wild antics, was involved in a horrific accident on January 4th. While leaving a pub in London, a group of skinheads confronted Moon and his entourage, attacking their Bentley.
In the ensuing chaos, Moon’s driver, Neil Boland, tried to intervene but was beaten by the mob. Moon, in a panicked attempt to flee the scene, accidentally ran over Boland. Though ruled an accident, the tragedy cast a long shadow over Moon, a reminder of the darker side of his rock and roll lifestyle.
Gaddafi Takes Power in Libya (January 15)
On January 15th, 1970, Muammar Gaddafi solidified his control over Libya. Having led a successful coup against King Idris four months prior, Gaddafi was appointed Premier by the Revolutionary Command Council, a government he himself established. A fervent Arab nationalist, Gaddafi aimed to eliminate Western influence.
His first year in power saw the removal of US and British military bases, along with the expulsion of Libyan citizens with Italian and Jewish backgrounds. Gaddafi’s rule would span over four decades, marked by controversy and repression. His reign finally ended in 2011, when he was captured and killed by rebel forces during the Libyan Civil War.
Simon & Garfunkel Release A Classic Album (January 26)
January 26th, 1970 marked a bittersweet moment in music history. Folk-rock icons Simon & Garfunkel released their final studio album, Bridge Over Troubled Water, before going their separate ways later that year.
Despite the impending breakup, the album proved to be a monumental success, widely considered their masterpiece. Bridge Over Troubled Water went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 25 million copies sold worldwide. It remains a testament to the enduring power of their music.
The Jackson 5 Take The Charts By Storm
The Jackson 5 kicked off 1970 with a bang. Hot on the heels of their history-making December appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, their debut single “I Want You Back” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart on January 31st. This wasn’t a one-hit wonder.
The group dominated the year, churning out three more number one singles: “ABC”, “The Love You Save”, and “I’ll Be There”. This unprecedented feat made them the first recording artists ever to have their first four singles reach the coveted number one spot. It was a clear sign that a new musical power was on the rise, paving the way for a young Michael Jackson to launch his own solo career just over a year later.
Black Sabbath & The Birth Of Heavy Metal (February 13)
On February 13th, 1970, the music world was forever changed with the release of Black Sabbath’s self-titled debut album. This dark and heavy offering introduced the iconic vocalist Ozzy Osbourne to the world, along with the band’s signature sound.
Black Sabbath’s debut wasn’t just groundbreaking, it was fast. According to guitarist Tony Iommi, the entire album was recorded in a single, 12-hour session. Despite the quick turnaround, the album’s impact was undeniable. It’s widely considered the first true heavy metal album, and continues to be hailed as one of the most influential records of the 20th century.
The Chicago 7 Trial Reaches A Verdict (February 18)
The highly-publicized trial of the Chicago 7 concluded on February 18th, 1970. These seven anti-Vietnam War activists had been accused of conspiracy to incite a riot during protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. The verdict brought a mixed sense of justice.
While all seven defendants were acquitted of the most serious charge, conspiracy, they were found guilty of crossing state lines to incite a riot. However, these convictions, along with charges of contempt of court, would eventually be overturned on appeal. The trial, though controversial, served as a reflection of the nation’s deep divisions over the Vietnam War and the growing anti-establishment movement.
A Somber Milestone In Nuclear Testing (March 26)
On March 26th, 1970, the United States detonated its 500th nuclear weapon since the atomic bombings of World War II. This marked a grim milestone in the ongoing nuclear testing program. The US would detonate over 1,000 nuclear devices before a moratorium was finally implemented by President George H.W. Bush.
The legacy of nuclear testing would continue to shape international relations. President Clinton extended the moratorium in the early 1990s and signed a treaty banning further testing altogether. While the US Senate has yet to ratify this treaty, the era of large-scale nuclear testing appears to be over.
Miles Davis’ Legendary Jazz Milestone
In the waning days of March 1970, the iconic jazz musician Miles Davis unveiled his 27th studio album, Bitches Brew. This groundbreaking work would not only ascend the charts, peaking at an impressive #35, but also secure Davis his inaugural gold record. Its impact reverberates through music history, as Bitches Brew remains a cornerstone of jazz excellence.
This iconic record defied conventions, blending jazz with elements of rock, funk, and avant-garde improvisation. Davis assembled a stellar ensemble, including Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea, and John McLaughlin, to create a sonic tapestry that pushed boundaries. The album’s experimental compositions, intricate rhythms, and electrifying solos captivated listeners, cementing its status as a timeless masterpiece.
Cigarette Advertising Goes Up In Smoke (April 1)
On April 1, 1970, President Richard Nixon signed a law banning cigarette commercials from radio and television. This wasn’t an April Fool’s joke, much to the dismay of the tobacco industry. The decision followed growing public health concerns.
Studies increasingly linked smoking to serious health problems like cancer, heart disease, and even birth defects. A report by the Surgeon General even highlighted the dangers of smoking for pregnant women and their babies. The final curtain call for cigarette ads on television came on January 1, 1971, with a commercial airing at 11:50 pm during Johnny Carson’s show.
The Fab Four Breaks Up (April 10)
The dream was over for countless fans on April 10, 1970. News broke that Paul McCartney had left the Beatles. Tensions within the band had been simmering for years, and McCartney’s announcement, part of a press release promoting his upcoming solo album, confirmed the split.
The release took the form of a Q&A, with questions reportedly written mostly by McCartney himself. While the public and even the remaining Beatles initially questioned the seriousness of the announcement, it proved to be the end. The Beatles never performed together again.
A Moon Mission Turns Critical (April 11)
Just a day after the world mourned the Beatles’ breakup, on April 11, 1970, the Apollo 13 mission launched towards the moon. Tragedy struck two days in when an oxygen tank malfunctioned, dashing hopes of a lunar landing. Astronauts Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, and Jack Swigert faced a desperate situation.
For three grueling days, the nation watched with bated breath as NASA scrambled to devise a return plan. With incredible ingenuity, mission control guided the crew through a series of risky maneuvers, ultimately bringing them home safely. Their feat of survival became an inspiration, later immortalized in the 1995 film Apollo 13.
Tragedy At Kent State (May 4)
On May 4, 1970, America witnessed a horrifying event at Kent State University in Ohio. National Guardsmen, deployed to quell anti-Vietnam War protests, opened fire on a crowd of unarmed students. Twenty-eight Guardsmen fired into the crowd for just 13 seconds, killing four students and wounding nine others, one left permanently paralyzed.
The Guardsmen, equipped with tear gas and bayonets, had ordered the crowd to disperse but then fired without warning. This act of violence sparked outrage across the nation, igniting protests on college campuses everywhere. Shockingly, a federal court later dropped all charges against the National Guard soldiers responsible.
The Beatles’ Swan Song with Staying Power (May 8)
The Beatles’ swan song arrived on May 8, 1970, just weeks after the news of their split sent shockwaves through the music world. Let It Be, the band’s final studio album, was released alongside a documentary of the same name chronicling their tumultuous recording sessions. The album itself received a lukewarm reception, with some of the most middling reviews of the band’s career.
Over time, the album has been reevaluated, with fans and critics alike recognizing it as an underrated gem. The documentary footage, initially released as a somewhat chaotic film, found new life in 2021 when director Peter Jackson transformed it into the acclaimed eight-hour series The Beatles: Get Back. Jackson’s masterful editing brought a new perspective to the band’s creative process, offering a fascinating look back at the Fab Four’s final chapter.
Peter Green Bids Farewell Fleetwood Mac (May 20)
On May 20, 1970, guitarist Peter Green abruptly left Fleetwood Mac after a concert. Captivated by a German commune he’d visited a few months prior, Green decided to stay there upon attending a party hosted by model Uschi Obermaier. Bandmate Mick Fleetwood, along with roadies, had to physically remove him to finish the European tour.
The 70s were a time of exploration, and for some musicians, that exploration led down unusual paths. Just ten months later, guitarist Jeremy Spencer would vanish during a California tour, disappearing to join the Children of God cult (now known as the Family International). He remains a member today. Perhaps it was a simpler way to avoid the band’s future turmoil documented in their iconic album Rumours.
Al Kaline Suffers A Bizarre Injury (May 30)
May 30, 1970, witnessed a terrifying moment on the baseball field. Detroit Tigers outfielder, Al Kaline, was involved in a brutal collision with teammate Jim Northrup while chasing a fly ball. The impact was so forceful that Kaline swallowed his tongue, rendering him unable to breathe and collapsing on the field.
The situation grew desperate as attempts to pry open Kaline’s clenched jaw proved futile. However, teammate Willie Horton stepped up as a hero. Utilizing his immense strength, Horton managed to force Kaline’s mouth open, clearing his airway. The scars on Horton’s hand served as a permanent reminder of the dramatic rescue. Thankfully, Kaline only missed one game, and Horton was rightfully recognized for his bravery by the Michigan Heart Association.
Angela Davis Fired From UCLA (Again) (June 20)
June 20, 1970, marked another tumultuous chapter for Angela Davis. UCLA fired the assistant philosophy professor for the second time, citing her use of inflammatory language in speeches. These speeches addressed the prior summer’s People’s Park Rally, where police actions during a protest turned deadly. Davis had criticized the police as brutal and the university regents as heartless.
This wasn’t Davis’ first brush with termination at UCLA. The university had previously fired her in 1969 due to her Communist Party affiliation. She was also an activist and Black Panther member. Her connection to these groups would become relevant later that year when she was implicated in a domestic terrorist attack.
The Birth Of American Top 40 (July 4)
On July 4, 1970, a new sound hit the airwaves – the first episode of American Top 40 With Casey Kasem. This syndicated radio show, counting down the week’s hottest Billboard singles, became a cultural phenomenon.
Kasem’s smooth, engaging voice became synonymous with Top 40 radio, paving the way for later hosts like Carson Daly and Ryan Seacrest (who currently carries the torch after Kasem’s retirement in 2004). Kasem’s influence extended beyond radio. He was also the original voice actor for Shaggy Rogers on Scooby-Doo, a role he held for an impressive 40 years.
Thor Heyerdahl Sails the Atlantic On Reeds (July 12)
Just a week after the debut of American Top 40, Thor Heyerdahl made a splash of his own. On July 12, 1970, the Norwegian explorer completed his daring transatlantic voyage. Sailing from Morocco to Barbados on a papyrus reed raft named Ra II, Heyerdahl aimed to prove a controversial theory. He believed ancient Egyptians and other Mediterranean cultures had reached the Americas, trading and sharing ideas with Central and South American civilizations.
Heyerdahl’s Ra II, meticulously constructed to resemble vessels of the era, successfully traversed the 4,000-mile journey in 57 days. Despite the impressive feat, his theory remains largely disputed by anthropologists today.
Jimi Hendrix Dies At 27 (September 18)
The music world mourned a colossal loss on September 18, 1970, with the sudden death of Jimi Hendrix at the young age of 27. In his short but influential career, Hendrix revolutionized the sound of the electric guitar, coaxing a kaleidoscope of unconventional sounds from the instrument. His electrifying stage presence, with contortions that would make even Elvis blush, cemented his place as a rock legend.
Tragically, Hendrix wouldn’t be the only musical talent lost at 27 that year. Just a few weeks later, on October 4th, Janis Joplin succumbed to the same fate. This string of deaths, including bluesman Alan “Blind Owl” Wilson earlier in September and Rolling Stones guitarist Brian Jones a few years prior, would come to be known as the hauntingly named “27 Club”.
Jim Morrison Arrested After Miami Mishap (September 20)
Jim Morrison, lead singer of The Doors, faced legal repercussions on September 20, 1970. He was convicted of indecent exposure and profanity stemming from a concert in Miami the prior year. The controversy centered around Morrison’s on-stage antics, which allegedly included profanity and a possible wardrobe malfunction.
While the band members maintain Morrison kept his pants on, the court found him guilty. The sentence: six months in jail and a $500 fine for the incident that forever tarnished the band’s reputation.
Public Broadcasting Takes Center Stage (October 5)
October 5, 1970, marked a significant moment in American television history. The Public Broadcasting Service, or PBS, officially launched as a national network. This non-profit organization aims to provide high-quality educational programming for viewers of all ages.
PBS quickly became a haven for beloved children’s shows like Sesame Street, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and The Magic School Bus, fostering learning and imagination in young viewers. It also offered intellectually stimulating content for adults, including prestigious programs like Masterpiece Theater and Downton Abbey, proving that educational television could be both informative and entertaining.
Garry Trudeau’s Doonesbury Comics Debuts (October 26)
On October 26, 1970, a new voice emerged in the world of comics: Garry Trudeau’s Doonesbury. This satirical strip, known for its sharp wit and political commentary, quickly gained a devoted following.
Doonesbury wasn’t afraid to tackle tough subjects. The strip’s 1974 storyline, “Stonewall”, lampooned the Watergate scandal, earning Trudeau the first-ever Pulitzer Prize for a comic strip. Despite occasional hiatuses, Doonesbury continues to be published today, proving that insightful social commentary can find a home in the funny pages, even if it raises eyebrows and sparks debate.
The Heartbreaking Case Of Genie The Feral Child (November 4)
A heartbreaking discovery on November 4, 1970, shocked the nation. Authorities found Genie, a thirteen-year-old girl who had endured unimaginable abuse and isolation. The severity of her situation was evident – Genie lacked any understanding of language, demonstrating developmental abilities closer to that of an infant.
Genie was taken into state care, and her story became a focal point for public attention. However, despite initial efforts to help her develop, Genie’s recovery was limited. Today, her whereabouts remain unknown.
Marshall Football Team Lost In Plane Crash (November 14)
A dark day descended upon Marshall University on November 14, 1970. A chartered jet carrying the Thundering Herd football team back from a game tragically crashed just short of the Tri-State Airport in Kenova, West Virginia. The aircraft struck trees while on approach, resulting in the devastating loss of all 75 people on board. This included 37 players, coaches, trainers, and boosters.
The tragedy nearly tore the heart out of the Marshall community, with the football program facing the unthinkable possibility of permanent closure. However, the spirit of Marshall prevailed. The team rebuilt, and their story of resilience continues to inspire. In 2006, the film We Are Marshall, starring Matthew McConaughey and Anthony Mackie, chronicled the aftermath of the crash and the team’s courageous return to the field.
Hockey Hall Of Fame Heist (December 5)
The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto was hit on December 5, 1970, in a case more embarrassing than lucrative for the culprits. Bizarrely, the thieves made off with the Stanley Cup – but it turned out to be a replica. They also grabbed the real Conn Smythe Trophy and Bill Masterson Trophy.
The trophies’ lack of black-market value became clear just a few weeks later when the thieves, perhaps realizing their mistake, abandoned them in a Toronto police officer’s driveway. The Conn Smythe and Masterson Trophies were recovered, but the case itself became a humorous footnote in hockey history.
An Unforgettable Encounter Between Elvis & Nixon (December 21)
On December 21, 1970, the White House witnessed an unorthodox meeting. Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, paid a surprise visit to President Richard Nixon in the Oval Office. Presley, deeply concerned about drug abuse, presented himself as a potential government spokesperson.
The unannounced arrival caught the Secret Service off guard, and Presley reportedly walked right in, pistol in tow. He gifted the antique Colt 45 to Nixon, a testament to the unusual nature of the visit. The iconic photograph capturing their conversation remains the most requested image from the National Archives, a lasting reminder of this bizarre yet fascinating day in American history.