Introduction: A Difficult but Some, Thriving Time

The era of the 1960s and 1970s, often associated with the hippie movement, was a period of immense social and cultural change. Yet, for many, it marked a challenging time, particularly for young men. This article reflects on the experiences of being a hippie during this transformative period, exploring the challenges faced by men and the unique struggles of women.

Adolescence in the 1960s and 1970s

Adolescence is often a difficult stage for everyone, but for those who embraced the hippie lifestyle, it was even more challenging. The experimentation with sex, drugs, and often illegal substances could be particularly dangerous during this vulnerable time of life. I recall thinking, and continue to believe, that while it was hard on everyone, girls generally faced even greater challenges and struggles.

Life for Boys During the Seventies

For boys, the path to adulthood often involved frequent dating and limited alcohol consumption. However, not all managed to thrive. Some crashed and burned due to the pressures and temptations of the era. On the other hand, those with good social skills and some physical attractiveness had a better chance of navigating through life relatively unscathed.

Life for Girls During the Seventies

For girls, the situation was more complex. There was no straightforward solution, as they faced choices that could have detrimental outcomes regardless of what they did. The social and cultural expectations were high, and many girls found it difficult to meet the standards. Despite the challenges, some managed to achieve a semblance of balance and resilience.

Conflict and Clash with Law Enforcement

The 1960s and 1970s were marked by significant social unrest, and the clash between law enforcement and the hippie movement was often violent. Police actions, such as those in Harrisonville, Missouri, in 1972, where Charlie Simpson shot a half-dozen Cass County cops in front of the town square, highlighted the tensions of the period.

By the 1970s, the Baby Boom Generation, which included many hippies, had become more assertive and sometimes aligned with various criminal gangs. This period saw a rise in confrontations, including instances of shootings and beatings, forming a dark undercurrent to the idealistic lifestyle that hippies often espoused.

Personal Reflections and Experience

Despite the challenges, some managed to thrive and maintain their passion for the hippie lifestyle well into their older years. I, for example, never self-identified as a hippie, but I was part of the movement in various ways. I traveled to San Francisco in a van, helped open a food cooperative, gardened, and baked bread. Later, I became a real estate broker, taught real estate classes, and flipped properties. I am 74 now, and I still bake bread, belong to the same food cooperative I helped start in the 1970s, and garden.

Some aspects of the hippie lifestyle, such as our community spirit and the appreciation for nature, will always remain with me. I recently revisited California and San Rafael, staying with some of my old “hippie friends.” I also spent time at the Filmore West and met the Grateful Dead, staying in Carlos Santana's apartment while he was touring.

Conclusion: Enduring Legacy

The legacy of the hippie movement is one of social and cultural revolution, sexual liberation, and a quest for peace and love. While the challenges were immense, the spirit of the hippie movement will always inspire and resonate with those who believed in its ideals. As I look back, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the enduring friendships formed during those formative years.