Remembering the 1970s: a time when rules were more relaxed.
The 1970s was an era defined by vibrant cultural shifts, free-spirited lifestyles, and a distinct absence of many modern-day regulations. What passed as normal behavior during this decade would shock or even appall today’s society. From parenting approaches to safety standards and public policies, the ’70s offered a world of freedoms that, by today’s rules, seem downright reckless.
Let’s revisit 13 surprising things you could do back then that would be outright illegal today.
1. Drive with an open container of alcohol.
Back in the 1970s, it wasn’t uncommon to see drivers cruising down the road with a cold beer or a mixed drink in hand. According to Berstein Law, many states didn’t have laws against open containers in vehicles, and the concept of “driving responsibly” didn’t necessarily mean abstaining from alcohol entirely. It was seen as just another way to enjoy a road trip or a casual evening drive, especially when few enforcement measures existed to curb this behavior.
Today, open-container laws are strictly enforced across most of the United States. Public awareness campaigns like “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving” have highlighted the dangers of drinking and driving, leading to a cultural and legal shift. What was once considered harmless fun is now met with fines, legal penalties, and a growing intolerance for risky behavior on the roads.
2. Leave kids unattended in the car.
Parents in the ’70s often left their kids in the car while running errands or shopping, a practice that reflected the general trust in community safety, according to USA Today. It wasn’t unusual to see children waiting in vehicles for extended periods, sometimes playing with the radio or simply watching the world go by. Few people worried about kidnapping, heatstroke, or other risks, and the sight rarely raised eyebrows.
Fast forward to today, and this behavior could result in criminal charges for neglect or child endangerment. Public awareness campaigns and tragic headlines have driven home the dangers of leaving children unsupervised, leading to a significant cultural shift. Modern parents now face both legal consequences and social condemnation for something their counterparts in the ’70s barely thought twice about.
3. Smoke in almost any indoor space.
The 1970s was a smoker’s paradise, with cigarettes being a staple in nearly every indoor environment. People smoked in restaurants, offices, movie theaters, airplanes, and even hospitals. Ashtrays were standard fixtures on desks, tables, and even car dashboards, and the pervasive smell of smoke was simply part of daily life. Non-smokers had little recourse, as the risks of secondhand smoke weren’t widely understood or discussed.
Today, strict anti-smoking laws have transformed public spaces. Lighting up in restaurants, workplaces, and airplanes is not only frowned upon but often results in hefty fines or removal. This shift reflects a broader understanding of the health risks posed by smoking, both for individuals and those around them. What was once seen as a personal choice has become a regulated public health issue.
4. Ride in the back of a pickup truck.
In the ’70s, hopping into the back of a pickup truck was considered a fun and carefree way to travel, especially for kids and teenagers. Whether it was a ride home from a ballgame or a scenic drive through the countryside, few people worried about the potential risks. Seatbelts and safety precautions were far from anyone’s mind as long as everyone held on tight and enjoyed the wind in their hair.
Today, riding in the bed of a pickup truck is illegal in most states, thanks to stricter safety laws and a deeper understanding of accident risks. Studies on fatalities from unrestrained passengers have driven these changes, making this once-common activity an almost nostalgic relic. The shift highlights the increasing emphasis on safety over spontaneity.
5. Hitchhike without raising concerns.
In the 1970s, hitchhiking was a widely accepted way to travel, particularly for young people and free spirits. The sight of someone thumbing a ride on the side of the road was commonplace, and many drivers were happy to oblige. Hitchhiking carried an adventurous allure, romanticized in films, music, and countercultural movements that celebrated freedom and trust.
Today, hitchhiking is rare and often illegal on highways due to safety concerns. Horror stories of dangerous encounters, coupled with fears of liability, have all but erased this practice from modern travel culture. What was once seen as a symbol of wanderlust is now viewed as a risky and outdated method of transportation.
6. Use lead-based paint in homes.
Lead-based paint was a popular choice in the 1970s, prized for its vibrant colors and durability. It was used on walls, furniture, and even toys without much thought about potential health risks. Children frequently came into contact with it, whether through peeling paint or household dust, leading to high levels of exposure in many homes.
Today, the dangers of lead poisoning are well-documented, and strict regulations ban its use. Homeowners with older properties must take extra precautions to safely remove or contain lead-based paint. This transformation underscores how scientific advancements have reshaped public health policies to prioritize safety and long-term well-being.
7. Let kids roam the neighborhood unsupervised.
In the ’70s, children enjoyed unparalleled freedom, spending entire days exploring their neighborhoods or local parks without adult supervision. The rule of thumb was to come home when the streetlights came on, and parents rarely worried about their kids’ safety. Communities were often close-knit, and it was assumed that everyone would look out for one another.
Today, letting children roam unsupervised can lead to accusations of neglect or even legal action. Concerns about abduction, injury, and other dangers have shifted parenting practices toward constant supervision. The unstructured freedom of the past now feels like a luxury that modern families can no longer afford.
8. Bring homemade treats to school.
In the ’70s, school events like bake sales or birthday celebrations often featured homemade cookies, cakes, and other treats. Parents enjoyed the opportunity to share their favorite recipes, and kids eagerly swapped desserts without worrying about food allergies or contamination risks. It was a simpler time when trust and community spirit were central to such occasions.
Today, strict food policies have replaced this tradition with store-bought, pre-packaged goods. Schools enforce stringent rules to manage allergens and ensure food safety, reflecting a growing focus on health and liability concerns. The nostalgic charm of homemade treats has largely been replaced by modern caution.
9. Purchase certain medications without a prescription.
In the 1970s, over-the-counter access to medications like codeine cough syrups and strong pain relievers was much easier. Pharmacists had more discretion in dispensing these drugs, and there was less oversight to prevent misuse. This made it convenient for consumers but also opened the door to unintended consequences like dependency.
Modern regulations require prescriptions for many medications to prevent addiction and ensure proper use. Today’s tighter controls reflect a more cautious approach to public health, emphasizing the balance between accessibility and safety.
10. Ride a bike without a helmet.
Helmetless bike rides were the norm in the 1970s, with both kids and adults hopping on their bicycles without a second thought about head protection. Parents prioritized teaching balance and road safety but rarely emphasized helmets. Riding felt like a carefree adventure rather than a calculated risk.
Now, helmet laws are widespread, and failing to wear one—especially for children—can result in fines. The shift toward prioritizing head safety reflects decades of research on the devastating consequences of cycling accidents. Helmets have become a universal symbol of responsible riding.
11. Operate heavy machinery without certification.
In the 1970s, many workers learned to operate heavy machinery like forklifts or cranes through informal on-the-job training. There were fewer regulations governing workplace safety, and employers often prioritized getting the job done quickly over ensuring proper certifications.
Today, strict training and certification requirements exist for operating such equipment. These laws aim to reduce workplace accidents and ensure that operators are fully qualified. The shift highlights a broader commitment to safety and accountability in industrial and construction settings.
12. Ignore seatbelts for children in cars.
Child car seats were far from standardized in the 1970s, and many parents didn’t use them at all. Kids often rode in laps or sprawled across the back seat, unrestrained and vulnerable in the event of an accident. Parents relied on instinct rather than regulations to keep their children safe.
Today, child safety seat laws are among the strictest transportation regulations. Parents face heavy penalties for non-compliance, and modern car seats are designed with advanced safety features. The dramatic change reflects a societal commitment to protecting young passengers at all costs.
13. Smoke while pregnant without judgment.
Smoking during pregnancy in the 1970s was not only common but often encouraged as a way to relax. Advertisements and even some medical professionals promoted smoking for its perceived calming effects, ignoring the risks to unborn babies. Public awareness of these dangers was practically nonexistent.
Now, smoking while pregnant is heavily stigmatized, with widespread campaigns and laws aimed at reducing harm to both mother and child. Research linking smoking to birth defects and developmental issues has reshaped societal attitudes, turning this once-common habit into a serious health concern.