The 1970s proved to be a transformative decade for Glasgow, defined by sweeping social change.
Thousands of residents moved out of ageing inner-city tenements and into newly built housing estates on the city’s outskirts, reshaping Glasgow’s landscape and communities.
On the world stage, the decade was marked by major political and cultural moments. Richard Nixon became the first U.S. president to resign in the wake of the Watergate scandal, blockbuster films like The Godfather, Star Wars, and Grease dominated cinema, Billy Connolly rose to national fame, and the UK experienced political upheaval that culminated in Margaret Thatcher’s election as prime minister in 1979.
Meanwhile in Glasgow, the live music scene flourished. Big-name performers took to the stage at Green’s Playhouse — renamed The Apollo in September 1973 — and Hampden Park once again hosted a European Cup Final, with Bayern Munich facing Saint-Étienne in 1976.
Here are 70 atmospheric pictures that capture a fascinating glimpse of Glasgow in the 1970s.
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