Ep 5. The State of the Union is Not Good

The Seventies is a documentary series that explores the culture, politics, and events of the 1970s in America. Season 1 episode 5, titled "The State of the Union is Not Good," looks at the various challenges facing the nation during this tumultuous decade.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the state of the country in the early 1970s. Americans were dealing with issues like rising crime rates, inflation, and an energy crisis. President Richard Nixon was facing political opposition both at home and abroad, with protests against the Vietnam War and scandals like Watergate dominating the headlines.

The focus then shifts to the state of the US economy. The episode explains how Nixon's economic policies, known as the "New Economic Policy," aimed to combat inflation and stimulate growth through a combination of wage and price controls, tax cuts, and increased government spending. However, these measures had unintended consequences, such as creating shortages of goods and services, and ultimately failed to address underlying economic problems.

Next, the episode examines the rise of conservatism in the 1970s. It looks at the factors that contributed to the conservative movement's success, such as dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the Vietnam War, concerns over cultural changes like the increasing influence of feminism and the counterculture, and a perceived decline in American values and patriotism. It also explores the ways in which conservative leaders like Ronald Reagan and Phyllis Schlafly mobilized supporters to achieve political victories.

Another key topic covered in the episode is the changing role of women in American society. It delves into the ways in which feminist movements like the National Organization for Women (NOW) fought for greater rights and representation for women, both in the workplace and in politics. The episode also profiles influential women like Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem, who fought against sexism and discrimination.

Later in the episode, the focus shifts to foreign policy. It discusses the ongoing conflict in Vietnam and the efforts of US leaders to extricate American troops from the conflict. It also looks at other diplomatic challenges facing the US in the 1970s, such as the negotiations to limit nuclear weapons and the opening of relations with China.

The episode concludes by examining the legacy of the 1970s. It argues that the decade represented a time of significant change and upheaval, both in the US and around the world. It also suggests that many of the challenges and debates from the 1970s, such as economic inequality, women's rights, and foreign policy, remain relevant and unresolved to this day.

Overall, "The State of the Union is Not Good" offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking look at the 1970s in America. Through a blend of archival footage, interviews, and narration, the episode provides a nuanced and engaging exploration of this fascinating decade.