The 1970s was a defining decade for Glasgow, marking a period of dramatic change as many residents left the city’s inner-city slums for newly built housing estates on its outskirts.
Globally, it was a time of major events and cultural milestones — Richard Nixon became the first U.S. president in history to resign following the Watergate scandal, films like The Godfather, Star Wars, and Grease captivated audiences, Billy Connolly emerged as a national star, and the UK experienced political turbulence leading up to Margaret Thatcher’s rise to power in 1979.
In Glasgow, the live music scene thrived. Notable acts performed at Green’s Playhouse — renamed The Apollo in September 1973 — while Hampden Park once again hosted a European Cup Final, with Bayern Munich taking on Saint-Étienne in 1976.
Here are 70 photographs that capture the changing face of Glasgow and everyday life in the city throughout the seventies.
37. Jim Callaghan visit
Labour Prime Minister Jim Callaghan visited Glasgow to promote the Yes For Scotland campaign in February 1979 before the March 1st Scottish devolution referendum. He was greeted by demonstrators from the CPSA trade union. Photo: Allan Milligan
38. Llamas
Mary Chipperfield with a performing llamas act in Chipperfield's circus at the Kelvin Hall Glasgow in December 1974. | TSPL
39. Sauchiehall Street (1975)
The Third Eye Centre (CCA Glasgow) pictured on Sauchiehall Street in 1975. | Glasgow City Archives
40. Central Station (1972)
Crowds entering Central Station on Glasgow Fair Monday in July 1972. Photo: TSPL