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.
9. Fruit market (1971)
Asian and European traders explain the new 'exotic' fruits, vegetables and spices (okra, ginger, mangoes, aubergine) on sale at the fruit market in Glasgow in December 1971. Photo: TSPL
10. Jimmy Reid
Govan-born Jimmy Reid stands as one of the great University of Glasgow Rectors having been elected to the post in 1971. He was voted in as Rector the same year the work-in began. | University of Glasgow
11. The Osmonds at The Apollo
Merrill, Jay and Wayne Osmond performing with American pop group The Osmonds, at the Apollo, Glasgow, on the British leg of their European tour, 25 October 1973. | Getty Images
12. Hampden Park 1971
Peter Cormack and Bobby Moore both challenge for the ball during a match at Hampden Park in Glasgow in May 1971. | Getty Images