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?
9. Shelter from the sun
A little girl uses the Scottish flag/ensign to shade baby from the sun at the SNP rally at Bannockburn in June 1977 | TSPL
10. Keeping cool
A keeper sprays water to cool down the penguins at Edinburgh Zoo during the summer of 1975 | TSPL
11. Long, hot summer
Four teenagers try to stay cool as they cross Princes Street, Edinburgh, during the long hot summer of 1976. | TSPL
12. Always be prepared
Summer in Princes Street Gardens in June 1979 - two Edinburgh ladies in the summer sunshine wearing rain hats... just in case | TSPL