The Era of Transformation: Arkansas in the 1970s
Arkansas in the 1970s witnessed a transformation that left indelible marks on the state’s social, economic, and cultural landscapes. This period was a time of growth, change, and ideals.
By the early 1970s, African Americans were more likely to register to vote in Arkansas than in other Southern states, a significant stride forward in civil rights. This period, however, was not without its obstacles. The Arkansas Delta, once the heart of the state’s agricultural sector, began to suffer from depopulation as people, mostly white, moved away, leading to a decline in the population and local businesses. This shift was accelerated by the shift to large industrial farms that relied on mechanization and chemicals, marking a significant change in the state’s agricultural practices. Despite these challenges, Arkansas continued to expand its economic development program, offering tax breaks, discounted loans, and direct subsidies to attract new businesses. Success stories like Jonesboro and steel plants emerging near Blytheville demonstrated that state assistance could pay off even in the battered Delta.
Culturally, the 1970s saw a drive to market Arkansas as a tourism destination, focusing on its natural beauty. The state nickname was changed from “Land of Opportunity” to “The Natural State.” This push also led to the establishment of the Ozark Folk Center State Park, which showcased traditional music and crafts. The period was characterized by festivals celebrating local culture and economic achievements. One significant development during this period was the back-to-the-land movement, which saw thousands of people, mostly young and educated, leave urban areas for rural Arkansas to engage in self-sufficient living. This influx contributed to a significant population growth, particularly in the Northwest and White River districts.
Politics played a significant role during the 1970s, as Jimmy Carter became the first Southern president since Andrew Johnson. Many Arkansans, like filmmaker Sarah Neidhardt’s family, moved back to the land, inspired by the ideals of independence and agrarian self-sufficiency. These new settlers faced skepticism but cautiously friendly local residents.
In entertainment and popular culture, the 1970s saw the prominence of disco and the rise of Atari consoles. Films like “Star Wars” captivated audiences, while music trends included outlaw country and southern rock, with iconic vehicles like the Trans Am becoming symbols of the era. Fashion reflected the counter-cultural spirit, with bell bottoms and graphic tees dominating the style scene.
Overall, the 1970s shaped Arkansas, both in terms of its population dynamics and its economic and social ethos. It was an era marked by a blend of growth, ideals, and resilience.
