Over the past 50 years, the evolution of gift-giving, from the simplicity and sentimentality of the 70s, to the modern-day emphasis on technology, reflects societal changes in culture and values.
During the 70s and early 80s, the Sony Walkman and record players were at the top of most teens’ lists. Today, we covet the latest Apple product.
It’s hard for many of us to imagine life without an iPhone, iPad, or even Google. The 70s gift catalogues had more hands on toys for children rather than electronics.
“I still remember getting so excited for the JCPenney and Sears catalogs arriving in the mail. My sisters and I would sit down with our markers to circle all the things we wanted. It was almost as exciting as waiting on Santa!” shared Ann Twigg, one of our English teachers.
However, in 2024 the gift catalogs consist of things like the iPhone, airpods, and video games. Today’s young people are asking for things like the latest iPad or trendy clothes.
“It may be difficult for some to imagine but playing video/computer games on one’s cell phone, desktop computer or television was not so readily available in decades past,” Doug Koztoski stated in the Holiday Gift Guides from the 1970s article.
Music was very popular in the 70s. Many people had boomboxes, cassette players, and vinyls. Many teachers at Carolina Forest High School can recall getting things like that when they were young.
“I remember getting my very first boom box and cassette. It was a pink Panasonic and I loved it! I got a cassette tape of Cyndi Lauper’s Money Changes Everything album,” Shelly Reatherford reminisced.
During the 70s anything that dealt with music was very popular.
“My junior year I paid 50/50 with my parents on my present for a stereo tower of turntable, tuner, and twin cassette recorder, ” Theatre Workshop teacher Mary Garber recalled.
Junior Erin McGinus said how she cannot wait for Christmas and is praying that she gets the new Apple watch she asked for.
“I can’t imagine not having the technology we have today. Every year on my Christmas list, I ask for something electronic,” McGinus stated.
While the gifts from 50 years ago reflect the cultural trends of their time, today’s gifts showcase the evolving priorities of our fast-paced, digital world.
