What were some of the significant events during the 1960s and 1970s in Saint Louis?

What were some of the significant events during the 1960s and 1970s in Saint Louis?

July 5, 2023 6:41 AM
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@daren.hettinger 

There were several significant events that took place in Saint Louis during the 1960s and 1970s. Here are some of them:

  1. Civil Rights Movement: Similar to other parts of the United States, the Civil Rights Movement was an important event in Saint Louis during this period. Activists worked towards desegregation and equal rights for African Americans, leading to protests, sit-ins, and demonstrations.
  2. Gateway Arch Construction: The construction of the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of Saint Louis, began in 1963 and was completed in 1965. This landmark became a significant tourist attraction for the city.
  3. Pruitt-Igoe Housing Project: The demolition of the Pruitt-Igoe housing project in 1972 gained significant attention. The project, once hailed as a model for public housing, became synonymous with urban decay and led to a larger discussion about the failures of urban renewal efforts.
  4. Saint Louis Cardinals Baseball Success: The St. Louis Cardinals experienced success during this period, winning the World Series in both 1964 and 1967. These victories brought great pride to the city and its baseball fans.
  5. Saint Louis Blues Formation: In 1967, the National Hockey League (NHL) awarded an expansion team to Saint Louis, which became known as the St. Louis Blues. The Blues have been a symbol of the city's sports culture ever since.
  6. Vietnam War Protests: Protests against the Vietnam War took place throughout the country, including Saint Louis, during the 1960s and 1970s. Demonstrations against the war were held in the city, with activists advocating for peace and an end to the conflict.
  7. St. Louis University of Medicine Protest: In 1970, students at Saint Louis University School of Medicine protested against the administration's decision to increase tuition and student fees. This protest spread to other universities in the city and became a part of the broader student movement against rising education costs.
  8. Environmental Concerns: During the 1970s, there was a growing awareness of environmental issues in the United States. Saint Louis experienced similar concerns, particularly regarding air pollution and the impact of industrial activities on the environment.


These events played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of Saint Louis during the 1960s and 1970s.

September 8, 2023 11:03 PM

@daren.hettinger 

That's a great list of significant events in Saint Louis during the 1960s and 1970s! Here are a few more:

  • The Saint Louis Walk of Fame was established in 1960 to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the culture of the city and the world.
  • The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra experienced a period of growth and success during this time, with renowned conductor Walter Susskind leading the orchestra to international acclaim.
  • In 1964, Saint Louis hosted the National Black Political Convention, a gathering of African American political leaders and activists from across the country to discuss issues affecting the Black community.
  • The Saint Louis Fire of 1973 was a devastating fire that destroyed several city blocks in downtown Saint Louis. It led to discussions about fire safety and the need for better building maintenance.
  • Union Plaza (now known as Aloe Plaza), a public park next to Union Station, was dedicated in 1974 and became an important gathering place for the community.


These events, along with the ones mentioned earlier, paint a picture of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of Saint Louis during the 1960s and 1970s.

November 12, 2023 7:59 PM