9 Things Gen-Z And Millennials Don’t Know About The 70s and 80s

Boomers share their insights into what younger generations get completely wrong about the good ol’ days. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and debunk some common myths.

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#1 – Having Limited Entertainment Was Awesome

Creative abstract 3D render illustration of the old retro TV television set with antenna on table against blue vintatge wall background and wooden plank floor in the room
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“And actually reading the TV Guide to know what new shows were coming out and when they were coming on.”

Many users agree that before the era of video rental stores, people gathered at school or work the next day to discuss what they watched on TV the night before. Back then, it was an enjoyable, shared experience as nearly every family tuned in together. In a world of limited viewing options, conversations revolved around the same shows.

#2 – Smoke and the Grocery Store

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“When I was older and worked in a grocery store in the 80’s, I would have to sweep up cigarettes that were stubbed out on the floor in the aisles.”

Some users talked about how health regulations in the 1980s were quite different. It wasn’t uncommon to see people smoking throughout public spaces, even in grocery stores. Ladies with cigarettes hanging out of their mouths were a common sight, making grocery shopping a smoky adventure.

#3 – Entertainment on a Budget

Teenagers having fun. Friends.
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“Essentials, while quality, weren’t cheap, and not many jobs paid well. You could afford an apartment, but you wouldn’t be doing much else at all but conversing with friends in-person.”

Entertainment budgets were tighter back in the day. People passed the time with simpler activities, like gathering to listen to the radio with friends. Streaming services and frequent device upgrades weren’t on the menu and finances were often allocated to necessities, not luxuries.

#4 – News Was Still Available

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“I literally had this happen at work yesterday where my younger co-workers were saying in effect ‘Israel, who knew all this was going on?’ and ‘People wouldn’t have known without social media!’ Believe me, we knew.”

Contrary to popular belief, many users want young people to understand that they didn’t live in silent bubbles just because they lacked smartphones and common computers. Social interactions thrived without digital devices.

#5 – The Landline Phone Experience

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“Honestly it’s shocking how poor the mic quality is on even high-end modern smartphones. We had so much better on landline phones as a rule.”

Landline telephones were known for their remarkable audio quality, far surpassing what modern remote conversations offer. Users recall late-night phone calls, hearing every breath and sigh, feeling incredibly close to their conversation partners without the lag and interference that plagues telephony today.

#6 – Durable vs. Disposable

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“Working in computer repair, computer and phone companies realized they’d make more money if they made it as difficult as possible to fix. But people started realizing that, so we’re fighting the “right to repair” fight.”

While some label the ’80s as the epitome of consumerism, others argue that the products were exceptionally well-made and fixable. Repair shops dotted towns, and tossing a broken item for a new one wasn’t the norm. The throwaway culture that prevails today was yet to come.

#7 – It Wasn’t All Neon

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The early ’80s retained the earthy fashion hues of brown, orange, and yellow from the late ’70s before pastel shades took over. So, for those who think the ’80s were all about neon, think again!

#8 – Navigating the Old-Fashioned Way

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Before the age of GPS and smartphones, reading paper maps and scanning for landmarks were the keys to successful travel. Younger generations might struggle to find their way without a digital guide.

#9 – The (Un)Reliability of Cars

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Some users pointed out that cars in the past, while durable, weren’t necessarily reliable. They might have been built like tanks, but they often required frequent trips to the mechanic for repairs.

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10 Subtle Signs of a Wealthy Person

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While taking my daily scroll on the front page of the internet, I came across an interesting question. Someone asked, “What are subtle signs of wealth?” Here are the top responses.

10 Subtle Signs of a Wealthy Person

12 Essential Things That Are Frozen In Time Since 2020

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As the world gradually finds its footing after the unprecedented upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s clear that the effects are still lingering in various aspects of our lives.

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11 Incredibly Valuable Pieces of Advice That Most People Initially Ignore

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In this list, we’ll explore the words of wisdom that, at first glance, might have seemed ordinary but turned out to be life-changing for those who heeded them.

11 Incredibly Valuable Pieces of Advice That Most People Initially Ignore

10 Unusual Hobbies That Are An Immediate Red Flag For Most People

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Hobbies can tell you a lot about a person, and sometimes, you stumble upon some that instantly raise your eyebrows. On a recent social media thread, users got into a spirited discussion about hobbies that are major red flags. From peculiar pastimes to downright disturbing activities, these hobbies have sparked quite the debate. Let’s dive into some of these eyebrow-raising interests, as discussed by various users.

10 Unusual Hobbies That Are An Immediate Red Flag For Most People

12 Of The Craziest Things Overheard on a Plane

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Air travel can often be an amusing, sometimes bewildering, experience. So fasten your seatbelts, and let’s take a look at what some folks have overheard during their airborne adventures.

12 Of The Craziest Things Overheard on a Plane