An ad-free Educational Platform Offering Access to Restored Vintage Photographs and Prints Documenting New York's Rich History.
Expertly Curated by Joseph A. Gornail & Steven D. Garcia of Fine Print New York • 315 Madison Avenue • Email Us • 212.619.5446

1965-1970 NYC: Social Unrest, Urban Renewal, and the Counterculture Wave

The history of New York City between 1965 and 1970 was marked by significant societal upheaval and transformation. This era saw the escalation of social unrest, driven by continued civil rights struggles and the emerging anti-Vietnam War movement. Major protests and demonstrations became frequent sights in the city, symbolizing a broader national discontent and a quest for profound societal change.

This period was also notable for its intense focus on urban renewal. Initiatives such as the construction of the World Trade Center, which began in 1966, epitomized the city’s ambitions to reshape its skyline and strengthen its global economic standing. However, these developments often came at the cost of community displacement, sparking debates and resistance concerning the consequences of rapid urbanization and gentrification.

Culturally, New York City was at the heart of the counterculture movement, which embraced new forms of artistic expression and lifestyle choices. Neighborhoods like the East Village became hubs for bohemian life, attracting artists, musicians, and young people all drawn to the city’s liberal atmosphere. Iconic music venues like the Fillmore East opened their doors, providing a stage for groundbreaking performances by rock and roll, folk, and blues artists, further cementing New York’s status as a cultural trendsetter.

In the realm of politics and governance, the city experienced shifts as well, with Mayor John Lindsay’s administration facing numerous challenges, from fiscal crises to labor strikes. Lindsay’s attempts to address the needs of a diverse and often divided city reflected the broader struggles facing urban America during this tumultuous time.

By the end of 1970, New York City had undergone profound changes that reshaped its social, cultural, and physical landscapes. The challenges and achievements of these years left an indelible mark on the city, shaping its policies and identity for future generations.

1965-1970 Timeline of New York City’s History, USA

Pedestrians crowd the intersection of Main And Nassau Streets at U. S. Custom House on 28 Wall Street in Downtown Manhattan.

1965: U.S. Custom House

Pedestrians crowd the intersection of Main And Nassau Streets at U. S. Custom House on 28 Wall Street in Downtown Manhattan.

Aerial photograph of a ticker tape parade for astronauts Virgil Grissom and John Young (seated in last car with Vice President Humphrey).

1965: Astronaut Parade

Aerial photograph of a ticker tape parade for astronauts Virgil Grissom and John Young (seated in last car with Vice President Humphrey).

Photograph of a packed floor at the New York City Stock Exchange on Wall Street.

1969: NYC Stock Exchange & Wall Street

Photograph of a packed floor at the New York City Stock Exchange on Wall Street.

A bird's eye view of the future site of the World Trade Center. An excavator is seen clearing and leveling land and preparing the foundations of the Twin Towers.

1968: Aerial View of World Trade Center Construction Site

A bird's eye view of the future site of the World Trade Center. An excavator is seen clearing and leveling land and preparing the foundations of the Twin Towers.

Photograph showing wall supports for the foundations of the World Trade Center.

1968: World Trade Center Foundation Walls

Photograph showing wall supports for the foundations of the World Trade Center.

Photograph of 149 Broadway, The Singer Building Facade from the southeast.

1967: Broadway and the Singer Tower

Photograph of 149 Broadway, The Singer Building Facade from the southeast.

A photograph taken by the Historic American Buildings Survey of the soon to be demolished Singer Tower at 149 Broadway.

1967: The Singer Tower

A photograph taken by the Historic American Buildings Survey of the soon to be demolished Singer Tower at 149 Broadway.

Photograph taken from Broadway, looking up towards the Singer Building.

1967: Looking Up at The Singer Tower

Photograph taken from Broadway, looking up towards the Singer Building.

Photograph of the Singer Tower close up, taken from the west.

1967: Singer Tower Close Up

Photograph of the Singer Tower close up, taken from the west.

Photograph of marchers carrying banner and leading the way as 15,000 attend a solidarity march in Harlem.

1965: Selma Supporters Protesting in Harlem

Photograph of marchers carrying banner and leading the way as 15,000 attend a solidarity march in Harlem.

Photograph of The Dakota Apartments, located at 1 West 72nd Street, Central Park West.

1965: The Dakota, Central Park West

Photograph of The Dakota Apartments, located at 1 West 72nd Street, Central Park West.

Photograph of the The Dakota Apartments taken from a corner in Central Park West.

1965: The Dakota, Central Park West Corner

Photograph of the The Dakota Apartments taken from a corner in Central Park West.

Photograph firectly across the street from buildings and cars parked on Second Avenue.

1966: Cars Parked on Second Avenue

Photograph firectly across the street from buildings and cars parked on Second Avenue.

Cars parked in front of Fraunces Tavern Block, Bounded by Pearl, Water & Broad Streets & Coenties Slip.

1967: Parking Lot on Water Street

Cars parked in front of Fraunces Tavern Block, Bounded by Pearl, Water & Broad Streets & Coenties Slip.

Photograph of cars and buildings on Second Avenue and East 41st Street.

1966: Cars and Buildings on Second Avenue

Photograph of cars and buildings on Second Avenue and East 41st Street.


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Discover How History101.nyc Sustains Its Ad-Free Educational Platform

History101.nyc has established itself as a leading educational platform, uniquely supported by Fine Print NYC, experts in the restoration of antique, rare, and damaged wallpapers. This collaboration enables History101.nyc to offer rich, well-researched content without the distraction of advertisements. Fine Print NYC's reputation for excellence in the niche field of wallpaper restoration highlights their commitment to preserving history, aligning perfectly with History101.nyc’s educational goals.

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Meet the Founders: The Creative Minds Behind Our Platform

Joseph Gornail a distinguished printer/photographer and the visionary behind Fine Print New York, hails from SoHo, Manhattan. Rooted in a family tradition of NYC printing, Joseph mastered the craft as a teenager. His significant impact on the New York printing industry ignited in 1996 with Dolo Records/Stretch Armstrong. He founded All City Marketing & Printing in the late '90s and co-created the iconic streetwear label Orchard Street with partners Benjamin Holloway and Greig Bennett in 1999. In 2004, Joseph launched Fine Print NYC, establishing it as a leading commercial printing firm. The company debuted with a landmark project for Nike, epitomizing innovation and resilience in the modern digital landscape.


Steven Garcia a prominent designer/illustrator and creative director at Fine Print, originates from Bushwick, Brooklyn. A graduate of Fashion Industries High School and the Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.), Steven has carved a notable path in the design world. His early career highlights include a role as a sought-after professional retoucher and storyboard artist at Saatchi & Saatchi in 1996. Embracing his entrepreneurial side, Steven founded ShinyDesign in 1998, which later became a key design partner for Fine Print NYC in 2004. His extensive portfolio features collaborations with elite brands such as Snapple, The Waldorf Astoria, Netflix and Sony, cementing his status as a key influencer in New York's vibrant advertising and design industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Defines History101.nyc? Explore NYC's Historical Journey

Welcome to "History101.NYC," an unparalleled online gallery featuring the beginnings of New York City, exquisitely restored by the experts at Fine Print New York. This exclusive collection vividly resurrects key historical moments, celebrating the city's rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Each meticulously crafted piece in our gallery offers a genuine look into NYC's past, embodying exceptional artistic skill and meticulous attention to detail.

Dive into our archives for a selection of exclusive, premium-quality art prints, encompassing a range of vintage photos, historical images, and rare lithographs unique to our site. These curated artworks narrate the dynamic evolution of the Big Apple, providing history enthusiasts and art collectors with a rare opportunity to own a part of NYC's illustrious legacy. Don't miss the chance to explore and acquire these captivating representations of New York City's historical journey.

What Time Periods, Eras, Decades of NYC History are available?

We cover a vast span of New York City's history, from its inception as New Amsterdam to the vibrant late 1980s. Our artists are actively working on expanding our collection to include photos from the 90s up to the present day.

Here's our current coverage list, showcasing the city's evolution:

Dutch Era: When New York Was New Amsterdam

NYC in the 1600s

Georgian Era

NYC in the 1700s • NYC from 1800 to 1840NYC in the 1840s • 

Victorian Era

NYC in the 1850s • NYC in the 1860s • NYC in the 1870s • NYC in the 1880s

Progressive Era

NYC in the 1890s • NYC from 1900 to 1905 • 1905 to 1910 • 1910 to 1915 • 

World War 1

NYC from 1915 to 1920

Art Deco

NYC from 1920 to 1925 • NYC from 1925 to 1930

Depression Era

NYC from 1930 to 1935 • NYC from 1935 to 1940

World War 2

NYC from 1940 to 1945

MidCentury Modern Era

NYC from 1945 to 1950 • 1950 to 1955 • 1955 to 1960 • 1960 to 1965 • 1965 to 1970

Energy Crisis

NYC from 1970 to 1975 • 1975 to 1980

Reagan Era

NYC from 1980 to 1985 • 1985 to 1990

Each period is richly represented through a variety of art mediums, offering a comprehensive and immersive historical journey of NYC. This chronological approach provides enthusiasts and scholars a unique lens into the city's architectural, cultural, and social developments.

How many historical Images are on this site?

There are currently 795 photos, lithographs, illustrations and maps on this site. Each one has been digitally restored and cleaned up by hand, which makes this collection truly unique.

Can I License Any of These Images?

Digital licenses are available for educational institutions (schools, universities, non-profit organizations). Please contact legal@fineprintnyc.com to discuss conditions for licensing.

NOTE: Any form of commercialization or redistribution of these images, either as tangible goods or third party licenses, is expressly forbidden.

Can I purchase prints of the historical images available on the site?

History101.nyc is an ad-free and non-profit learning resource. We do not sell prints of these images. All operational costs are covered by Fine Print NYC

Do you accept admissions to this collection?

Absolutely! Feel free to send us an email with a preview of the image and we will let you know if it's a good fit for the archives.

How do you handle feedback or corrections regarding the historical context of images?

We welcome any feedback that you may have. If it proves to be historically accurate the changes will be reflected on the site shortly after our correspondence.

Do you collaborate with other historical societies or archives?

We have collaborated with NYC's Municipal Archives, The Tenemant Museum, Bronx Historical Society and a number of prominent NYC photographers to produce a series of limited edition postcards which free of charge, but only available via street distribution, primarily in Manhattan.

Do you also provide image restoration as a service for personal photos?

Yes, we can repair, restore and cleanup your old family photos, slides and negatives. You can either send us the digital files or the original photos to be professionally scanned.

Can you repair any type of image damage?

We can restore just about any level of damage or signs of aging, within reason. As long as most of the photo is intact we cn work with it. The one flaw we cannot fix is source material that is blurry. A poorly take photo can only be improved so much.

@History101NYC

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History101.NYC is an ad-free learning resource available to the public at no charge.
This project is dedicated to exploring New York’s fascinating heritage through the restoration of vintage photographs and prints.