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.
21. Ivor Cutler
Scottish poet and musician Ivor Cutler pictured in October 1974. Photo: Evening Standard
22. Glasgow in 1971
Hillhead High School twins Chrissie McMeekin & Evelyn McMeekin after the 100m final of the Glasgow Corporation Championships, held at Scotstoun in May 1971. Photo: TSPL
23. Alhambra theatre
The demolition of the Alhambra theatre in Glasgow in July 1971. Photo: Gordon Rule
24. Billy Connolly outside his show at the Pavillion
The Big Yin standing outside the Pavilion Theatre where his show ‘The Billy Connolly Show’ was playing | TSPL