The movie American Graffiti asked us that question many years ago, bringing back memories of great cars, greasy hair, and rock and roll. We boomers love to be nostalgic, and who can blame us?
A lot of significant events have taken place during our lives that shaped American culture.
In his book “Boomers Rock Again”, author Sanford Holst looks at the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, focusing mainly on some of the remarkable people who grew up among us—77 of them to be exact. He also showcases some of the events, movies, television shows, music and more from our favorite era.
Here’s a few tidbits from Holst’s book that might surprise you:
- Pat Benatar’s first job was a bank teller.
- Richard Branson’s headmaster predicted he would either end up in prison, or become a millionaire.
- Sandra Bullock was a cheerleader.
- George Clooney tried out for the Cincinnati Reds.
- Richard Gere was awarded a gymnastics scholarship for college but turned it down.
- Samuel L. Jackson was active in Civil Rights protests in the late 1960s.
- Liam Neeson took up boxing at the age of nine.
- Denzel Washington played basketball for Fordham University.
It’s fun to look back at the beginning of people’s careers, because we all remember how different we were when we were coming of age.
For sure, growing up in these decades—including the late 1940s and 1950s—was anything but dull.
And it can be easy to romance the past, forgetting about all the struggles, unrest, violence, assassinations and chaos that occurred then as well.
Still, I think it was a fascinating era. What are some of your favorite memories?
“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”
Robert Brault
I remember the ice cream shop within walking distance of our house. After I got paid for babysitting it was my favorite place to go. Thanks for bringing back the good memories.
That’s a great memory! I also remember when the ice cream man came around the neighborhood….great treats for a nickel!