But life during the 70s wasn’t entirely bleak, as these photos capturing happy moments in the sunshine around Scotland show.
Families are seen splashing around in a popular lido, workers are pictured soaking up some rays during their break, and diners are shown enjoying lunch al fresco, with a view to die for.
Ice creams and sandcastles at the beach, street magic in the city centre, and sailing trips from the harbour also feature in this retro photo gallery.
Do these nostalgic pictures bring back any happy 70s memories for you?
13. At the beach
Children building a sandcastle on Portobello beach in the summer of 1975 | TSPL
14. Taking the plunge
Rhona Heeps and Stewart Somerville are the first children in Portobello open-air pool as it re-opens in June 1976 | TSPL
15. Busy beach
Children and families enjoy the May sunshine on the beach and promenade at Portobello in 1975 | TSPL
16. Sword-balancing
John Baird, of the Scottish Conjuring Association, and his assistant Evelyn Rose perform their sword-balancing trick for the crowds in Buchanan Street, Glasgow, in June 1976 | TSPL