In the late 1970s, New York City was experiencing severe economic and political difficulties, unlike anything it had ever experienced before. During the recession, New York City city workers were laid off, and municipal services like sanitation and after-school programs were cut due to economic stagnation, industrial decline, and the threat of bankruptcy. Over 820,000 middle-class families fled to the suburbs in a movement known as white flight as unemployment in the city continued to rise. Feeling neglected by their government and angry at the cuts in social services, other citizens turned to violence; drug use, vandalism, and theft rapidly increased. During the power outage of July 13th, 1977, the darkness and confusion caused even more aggression, such as looting in the city.
Below are some stunning photos of New York City in 1978 and 1979 captured by Frank Florianz.
