Knowledge
What Happened in 1984? A Look Back at a Truly Epic Year
1984 was a year packed with memorable moments. So, what happened in 1984 that made it so significant? From iconic movies and groundbreaking music to thrilling sports events and the rise of new technologies, 1984 left an indelible mark on history. Let’s dive into the highlights of this amazing year.
Before diving into 1984, you might want to check out my reviews of the previous years:
Movies That Defined a Generation in 1984
The silver screen in 1984 delivered some absolute classics. These films are still loved and watched today.
Ghostbusters
Who you gonna call? This supernatural comedy, starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis, became a massive cultural phenomenon. Its blend of comedy and special effects was groundbreaking, and the theme song became instantly recognizable. The movie’s success spawned sequels, animated series, and a lasting franchise. It was the highest-grossing film of the year, proving that audiences loved a good laugh with their supernatural thrills.
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
The adventurous archaeologist, played by Harrison Ford, returned for another thrilling ride. This installment was darker and more intense than its predecessor, leading to the creation of the PG-13 rating by the Motion Picture Association of America due to its scenes of violence. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it continued the blockbuster success of the Indiana Jones series.
The Terminator
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s iconic role as a relentless killer cyborg from the future launched a hugely successful franchise. Directed by James Cameron, this low-budget sci-fi thriller was a critical and commercial hit, establishing Schwarzenegger as a major action star and showcasing groundbreaking special effects for its time.
Beverly Hills Cop
Eddie Murphy’s comedic action film, where he played a street-smart Detroit cop investigating a murder in Beverly Hills, was a box office smash. Murphy’s charisma and comedic timing made the film a massive success, solidifying his status as a leading Hollywood star.
Footloose
This movie about a town banning dancing and a rebellious newcomer who challenges the status quo resonated deeply with teenagers. Its soundtrack, featuring hits like the title song by Kenny Loggins and “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” by Deniece Williams, was equally popular and defined the sound of the year for many.
Gremlins
A seemingly cute and furry creature called a Mogwai spawns mischievous and destructive monsters when its owner fails to follow three important rules. This dark comedy horror film, directed by Joe Dante and produced by Steven Spielberg, became a holiday classic and showcased innovative creature effects.
Purple Rain
Prince’s semi-autobiographical musical drama was a cultural phenomenon. The film showcased Prince’s musical genius and flamboyant persona, and its soundtrack became one of the best-selling albums of all time. It cemented Prince’s status as a global superstar.
Amadeus
This historical drama, directed by Miloš Forman, told a fictionalized story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and his rivalry with Antonio Salieri. It was a critical darling, winning multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is celebrated for its stunning visuals and performances.
A Nightmare on Elm Street
Freddy Krueger, a disfigured serial killer who attacks teenagers in their dreams, terrified audiences and became a horror icon. This low-budget film, directed by Wes Craven, launched a successful horror franchise and introduced one of the most memorable villains in cinematic history.
This is Spinal Tap
This mockumentary brilliantly satirized the world of rock music. Directed by Rob Reiner, it followed the fictional heavy metal band Spinal Tap on tour, using improvisation and clever writing to create a hilarious and surprisingly insightful look at the rock and roll lifestyle.
The Karate Kid
This inspiring story of an underdog, Daniel LaRusso, learning martial arts from his wise mentor, Mr. Miyagi, became a beloved classic. Its themes of perseverance and self-discovery resonated with audiences of all ages, and it spawned several sequels and a lasting cultural impact.
Other notable movies released in 1984
The comedy Police Academy, the fantasy adventure The Never-Ending Story, the science fiction epic Dune, the teen romance Sixteen Candles, the adventure comedy Romancing the Stone, and the romantic comedy Splash.
The Soundtrack of 1984: Music That Moved Us
The music scene in 1984 was incredibly diverse and produced many timeless hits. Movie soundtracks played a significant role in the year’s top songs.
“Like a Virgin” by Madonna
This song, with its catchy melody and provocative lyrics, catapulted Madonna to superstardom. It was the lead single from her second studio album of the same name and became one of her signature songs, defining her early image and musical style.
“Thriller” by Michael Jackson
Although released in late 1982, the Thriller album and its singles continued their unprecedented reign in 1984. Its impact was still massive, with the iconic music video for the title track continuing to break barriers and set new standards for music video production.
“When Doves Cry” by Prince
This unique and powerful song, the lead single from the Purple Rain soundtrack, topped the charts. Its innovative arrangement and emotional delivery showcased Prince’s exceptional talent and cemented his status as a musical visionary.
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
This upbeat and empowering anthem became a symbol of female empowerment. Lauper’s quirky style and infectious energy made the song a massive hit and a lasting cultural touchstone.
“Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen
This album and its title track captured the nation’s attention. While seemingly patriotic, the lyrics offered a critical commentary on the experiences of Vietnam War veterans. The album’s raw energy and Springsteen’s powerful storytelling resonated deeply with audiences.
“Jump” by Van Halen
This rock anthem with its iconic keyboard riff, played by Eddie Van Halen, was a huge hit. It marked a slight departure from the band’s earlier guitar-heavy sound and became one of their most recognizable and enduring songs.
“Careless Whisper” by George Michael (Wham!)
This saxophone-infused ballad, though officially credited to George Michael as a solo artist, was heavily associated with the duo Wham!. Its smooth melody and romantic lyrics made it a global sensation and a staple of 1980s love songs.
“Footloose” by Kenny Loggins
The title song from the movie was an infectious hit that perfectly captured the film’s energy and rebellious spirit. It became one of Loggins’ signature songs and a quintessential 80s anthem.
“Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr.
The catchy and upbeat theme song from the movie was as popular as the film itself. Its memorable lyrics and infectious melody made it an instant classic.
Other major hits of the year included
- “99 Luftballons” by Nena, a German-language anti-war song that gained international popularity.
- “The Reflex” by Duran Duran, a stylish and energetic new wave track.
- “Sunglasses at Night” by Corey Hart, a synth-pop hit with a distinctive sound.
- “Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel, a nostalgic tribute to 1960s doo-wop.
- “I Want a New Drug” by Huey Lewis and the News, a high-energy rock song.
The top ten songs of 1984 also featured.
- “What’s Love Got to Do With It” by Tina Turner, marking her successful comeback.
- “Say Say Say” by Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson, a highly anticipated collaboration.
- “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” by Phil Collins, a powerful ballad from the film of the same name.
- “Hello” by Lionel Richie, a heartfelt and enduring love song.
- “Owner of a Lonely Heart” by Yes, a progressive rock track with a pop sensibility.
- “Karma Chameleon” by Culture Club, a reggae-infused pop hit.
- The best-selling album of the year was Purple Rain by Prince, which impressively spent 22 weeks at number one on the charts, solidifying Prince’s status as a musical icon.
Sporting Heroes and Historic Moments of 1984
The world of sports in 1984 provided plenty of excitement and memorable achievements.
The 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles
These Games were significant as they were boycotted by the Soviet Union and several Eastern Bloc countries in response to the US-led boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Despite the absence of some major competitors, the Games were a resounding success for the host nation, with the United States dominating the medal count.
Track and Field Dominance
Carl Lewis’s Olympic Triumph
American track and field star Carl Lewis had a phenomenal Olympics, winning four gold medals in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4×100 meter relay. His achievements equaled Jesse Owens’ legendary performance at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, making him an international sensation.
Gymnastics Glory
Mary Lou Retton’s Achievement
American gymnast Mary Lou Retton became an Olympic darling, captivating the world with her energetic performances and radiant smile. She won a total of five medals, including a gold in the individual all-around competition, becoming the first American woman to achieve this feat in a non-boycotted Olympics.
Basketball and Baseball Highlights
NBA Finals: Lakers vs. Celtics
This classic rivalry saw the Lakers, led by Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, defeat the Celtics, featuring Larry Bird and Kevin McHale, in a thrilling seven-game series. This matchup is considered one of the greatest in NBA history and reignited the intense rivalry between these two iconic franchises. Notable basketball figures of the year also included rising stars Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing, and Chris Mullin, who were making their mark on the college and professional scenes. College basketball coach Bobby Knight led the Indiana Hoosiers to an NCAA championship.
MLB World Series: Detroit Tigers Victory
The Detroit Tigers had an outstanding season, starting with a remarkable 35-5 record. They went on to win the American League pennant and then swept the San Diego Padres in the World Series, marking a memorable year for Tigers fans.
Tennis and Golf Champions
Tennis Grand Slam and Wimbledon
In the world of tennis, Ivan Lendl finally broke through to win his first Grand Slam title at the French Open, defeating John McEnroe in a dramatic final. McEnroe and Martina Navratilova continued their dominance at Wimbledon, both winning the singles titles.
Golf Majors
Golf saw Fuzzy Zoeller win the prestigious U.S. Open, while Ben Crenshaw triumphed at The Masters, marking significant achievements in the world of golf. Wayne Gretzky continued his reign as the dominant force in ice hockey.
Gaming in 1984: The Rise of Iconic Titles
The video game landscape in 1984 saw the emergence of some truly iconic games and a significant shift in the home console market.
Emergence of Classic Games
Tetris
Although officially released in 1984 in the Soviet Union, created by Alexey Pajitnov, it began to gain international attention. This simple yet addictive puzzle game, where players must arrange falling blocks to form complete lines, would later become a global phenomenon and one of the best-selling video games of all time.
Pac-Land
This arcade game, developed by Namco, introduced a new style of platforming gameplay. Unlike traditional platformers, Pac-Man moved horizontally across the screen, and players had to time jumps and attacks to navigate the levels. It was a visually appealing and innovative game for its time.
King’s Quest
This adventure game from Sierra On-Line, designed by Roberta Williams, helped popularize the graphic adventure genre on personal computers. It featured detailed graphics, a compelling storyline, and innovative gameplay elements, setting a new standard for adventure games.
Elite
This groundbreaking space trading and combat simulator, developed by David Braben and Ian Bell, was revolutionary for its time. Players could explore a vast galaxy, trade goods, engage in dogfights, and build their wealth and reputation. Its open-world gameplay and sophisticated simulation were highly innovative.
Home Console Market Shift
Nintendo Famicom Release
While the North American video game market was still struggling after the crash of 1983, Nintendo released the Famicom in Japan in July 1983. However, its impact began to be felt more widely in 1984, laying the groundwork for its eventual global success as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the revitalization of the home console market.
Other Notable Games
Other notable games released in 1984 included
- The puzzle-action game Boulder Dash
- The classic vertical-scrolling shooter 1942
- The action game Cobra Command
- The boxing arcade game Punch-Out!
- The ZX Spectrum platformer Jet Set Willy
- and the martial arts game Karate Champ
Brands and Products That Made Their Mark in 1984: The Year of Apple
1984 was truly the year of Apple in many ways.
Apple Macintosh
1984 is the year when an upstart computer company took the world by storm. It’s hard to tell this tale in a few brief paragraphs, but 1984 was a seismic shift in not just the computing world, but the world of advertising.
During the Super Bowl that year, the cameras cut away from the action on the field and everyone’s screens went dark. Then some ominous music started playing. No one had any idea what they were watching, but it seemed like a movie. The tone of the commercial captured that 1984 dystopian, Orwellian future. This, of course, was the iconic 1984 Apple Macintosh commercial.
This ad turned everything on its head. It perfectly used being in the year 1984, and it was ushering in a new age of electronics. Home computing was now getting personal and away from the corporate “Big Brotherness” that was associated with companies like IBM.
Apple, led by a young Steve Jobs, branded itself as a bunch of rebels. They were pirates and wanted to hijack the computing world. This commercial was the definition of “water cooler talk.” More people talked about it than the actual game. It turns out, Ridley Scott directed it, and this explains the movie quality-feel it had.
The commercial sent a powerful message, not just to the technological industry, but to the world of advertising. Commercials could now be events. They could have movie-like production values. This also changed how the Super Bowl handled commercials and the Big Game would now become the platform to launch big ads. The Macintosh itself was revolutionary, featuring a graphical user interface and a mouse, making personal computing more intuitive and accessible to a wider audience.
Dell Computer
Michael Dell founded Dell Computer Corporation (originally called PCs Limited) in 1984 while still a student at the University of Texas at Austin. Dell’s innovative direct-to-consumer sales model revolutionized the PC industry and quickly made the company a major player.
Swatch
These trendy and affordable watches from Switzerland became a global fashion statement. With their colorful designs and interchangeable parts, Swatch watches appealed to a younger generation and helped revive the Swiss watch industry.
Cabbage Patch Kids
The demand for these unique dolls, each with its own name and adoption papers, reached fever pitch in 1984, creating a major toy craze and leading to widespread shortages in stores.
Culture and Trends of 1984: What Was Hot?
Culturally, 1984 was a vibrant year with distinct trends.
- The influence of MTV was at its peak. Music videos became an art form and heavily impacted popular culture, shaping fashion, dance, and visual aesthetics. Artists like Madonna and Michael Jackson used music videos to create iconic imagery and further their global appeal.
- Fashion trends included bright colors, big hair, and leg warmers. The aerobics craze, fueled by celebrities like Jane Fonda, was in full swing, influencing both fashion and fitness trends.
- Breakdancing became popular. Movies like Breakin’ and Beat Street further fueled the trend, bringing hip-hop culture and street dance into the mainstream.
- Advance Australia Fair was officially proclaimed as Australia’s national anthem on April 19, 1984, replacing “God Save the Queen.” This was a significant moment in Australian national identity.
- The TED conference was founded in Monterey, California, in 1984. Organized by Richard Saul Wurman and Harry Marks, the first TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) conference brought together innovators from these three fields. While it was not the global phenomenon it is today, its inception in 1984 marked the beginning of a powerful platform for sharing influential ideas.
Technology and Space Exploration in 1984
Technological advancements continued to shape the future in 1984, with significant strides in space exploration.
The Apple Macintosh Introduced User-Friendly Computing
The Apple Macintosh introduced the concept of user-friendly personal computing to a wider audience. Its innovative graphical user interface and mouse control were revolutionary for the time.
Continued Development of CD-ROM Technology
The development of CD-ROM technology continued, although it would take a few more years to be widely adopted. This technology would eventually revolutionize data storage for computers and music.
Early Accessibility of Mobile Phones
Mobile phones were still in their early stages, bulky and expensive, but they were beginning to become more accessible to businesses and affluent individuals.
Development Began on the International Space Station
Development began on what would eventually become the International Space Station (ISS). While the actual launch and assembly were years in the future, 1984 saw the initial planning and conceptualization stages for this ambitious international collaboration in low Earth orbit.
First Untethered Spacewalk Achieved
The first untethered spacewalk took place on February 7, 1984. Astronaut Bruce McCandless II ventured outside the Space Shuttle Challenger using a Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU), flying freely in space without any physical connection to the spacecraft. This was a breathtaking achievement and a significant step forward in astronaut capabilities.
Maiden Voyage of Space Shuttle Discovery
The Space Shuttle Discovery launched on its maiden voyage on August 30, 1984. This marked the beginning of a long and successful career for one of NASA’s most iconic space shuttles, which would go on to fly numerous important missions, including deploying the Hubble Space Telescope.
Bill Gates Featured on Time Magazine Cover
Bill Gates appeared on the cover of Time Magazine in 1984, a significant recognition of the growing importance and influence of personal computing and the role of Microsoft in this burgeoning industry.
Launch of Prodigy Online Service
Prodigy, considered the first consumer online service, was launched as a joint venture between IBM, Sears, and CBS. It provided users with access to news, weather, shopping, and other online content through their personal computers, foreshadowing the rise of the internet.
DNA Fingerprinting Discovered
In a groundbreaking scientific discovery, DNA fingerprinting was discovered by British geneticist Sir Alec Jeffreys at the University of Leicester in 1984. This revolutionary technique would later transform forensic science and paternity testing.
Notable People Who Made Headlines in 1984
Several individuals made significant contributions or were in the news in 1984.
Michael Jackson
Continued his global dominance in music, with the Thriller album still breaking records and his innovative music videos captivating audiences worldwide.
Madonna
Burst onto the music scene with the release of her Like a Virgin album, establishing herself as a major pop icon with her provocative image and catchy songs.
Prince
Released the iconic Purple Rain album and film, solidifying his status as a musical genius and cultural force.
Bruce Springsteen
His Born in the U.S.A. album became a cultural touchstone, sparking discussions about patriotism and the American working class.
Carl Lewis
His remarkable achievements at the Los Angeles Olympics made him an international superstar and a symbol of athletic excellence.
Mary Lou Retton
Her gold-medal performance in gymnastics captivated the nation and made her a beloved figure in American sports.
John DeLorean
Was acquitted of all charges related to cocaine trafficking in a highly publicized trial. The charismatic former auto executive’s legal troubles had been ongoing for several years, and his acquittal was a surprising turn of events. (You can read more about this in my article all about the DeLorean here!)
Brian Mulroney
Won a majority government in Canada in the federal election held on September 4, 1984. He was sworn in as Prime Minister, succeeding John Turner, and his Progressive Conservative party ushered in a new era of Canadian politics with significant policy changes.
Other notable figures making waves in 1984 included:
- Michael Jordan, who was beginning his legendary NBA career with the Chicago Bulls;
- Patrick Ewing, a dominant center at Georgetown University;
- Chris Mullin, a standout player for St. John’s University;
- College basketball coach Bobby Knight, who led the Indiana Hoosiers to an NCAA championship victory;
- Tennis legends Ivan Lendl, John McEnroe, and Martina Navratilova, who continued their dominance on the court;
- Golf champions Fuzzy Zoeller and Ben Crenshaw, who celebrated major tournament wins;
- Hockey superstar Wayne Gretzky, who continued to break records and lead the Edmonton Oilers;
- Technology pioneers Steve Jobs of Apple and Bill Gates of Microsoft, who were shaping the future of computing;
- The scientific community also recognized the groundbreaking work of British geneticist Sir Alec Jeffreys, who discovered DNA fingerprinting.
Other Big Things That Happened in 1984
Beyond the major categories, other notable events occurred in 1984.
- The Bhopal disaster occurred in India. This catastrophic industrial accident at a Union Carbide pesticide plant resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and left hundreds of thousands more with long-term health issues. It remains one of the worst industrial disasters in history, raising serious concerns about industrial safety and corporate responsibility.
- The Brighton hotel bombing took place in the UK. The Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) detonated a bomb at the Grand Hotel in Brighton during the Conservative Party conference, in an attempt to assassinate Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and her cabinet. While Thatcher survived, five people were killed, and many others were injured, marking a significant event in the Troubles.
- The UK and the People’s Republic of China signed an initial agreement in December 1984 to return Hong Kong to China in 1997. This landmark agreement, known as the Sino-British Joint Declaration, set the terms for the transfer of sovereignty and guaranteed Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy for 50 years after the handover.
- Awareness began to grow significantly regarding the severe starvation problems plaguing Ethiopia due to a devastating drought and political instability. Images of starving children shocked the world, leading to a massive outpouring of international aid and the iconic “Band Aid” charity single, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” which was released later in the year.
- The 1984 World’s Fair took place in New Orleans, Louisiana, from May 12 to November 11. The theme was “The World of Rivers – Fresh Water as a Source of Life,” and it featured exhibits from numerous countries and corporations, attracting millions of visitors. However, the fair faced financial difficulties and ultimately closed in bankruptcy.
The George Orwell Connection to 1984
The year 1984 holds a unique significance due to George Orwell’s dystopian novel of the same name, Nineteen Eighty-Four. Published in 1949, the book painted a chilling picture of a totalitarian state with constant surveillance, thought control, and manipulation of information.
As the actual year 1984 arrived, there was widespread discussion and reflection on whether Orwell’s predictions had come true.
While the world hadn’t descended into the exact dystopia depicted in the novel, many commentators and thinkers explored the themes of government overreach, technological surveillance, and the control of information in the context of the real 1984.
The year served as a potent reminder of the importance of individual freedoms, privacy, and the potential dangers of unchecked power, and Orwell’s novel experienced a resurgence in popularity.
Important TV Shows in 1984
Television in 1984 also offered some memorable and impactful shows:
- Miami Vice premiered on NBC, with its stylish visuals, groundbreaking use of music, and storylines that defined 80s cool. Starring Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas as undercover detectives in Miami, the show was a cultural phenomenon and heavily influenced fashion and music trends.
- Murder, She Wrote debuted on CBS, becoming a long-running hit starring Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, a mystery writer and amateur detective who solves murders in her Maine town and during her travels. The show’s enduring popularity cemented Lansbury’s status as a television icon.
- Punky Brewster captured the hearts of many with its story of a bright and independent orphaned girl, Punky (played by Soleil Moon Frye), who is taken in by a kind but gruff photographer, Henry Warnimont (played by George Gaynes). The sitcom was known for its heartwarming storylines and Punky’s colorful fashion sense.
- V (the miniseries) aired on NBC, captivating audiences with its thrilling story of seemingly benevolent alien lizards disguised as humans who secretly plan to take over the Earth. The miniseries was a ratings success and spawned a sequel miniseries and a short-lived television series.
Conclusion: Why 1984 Still Matters
So, what happened in 1984? It was a year of incredible creativity, innovation, and significant global events. From the iconic movies and music that continue to entertain us to the groundbreaking technologies that shaped our present, and the important political, social, and cultural developments, 1984 left a lasting legacy. It was truly an epic year.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1984
What were the biggest movies of 1984?
Some of the biggest movies included Ghostbusters, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, and The Terminator.
Who were the top music artists in 1984?
Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and Bruce Springsteen were among the top artists.
What major sporting events happened in 1984?
The Summer Olympics in Los Angeles was a major event.
What new technology was introduced in 1984?
The Apple Macintosh was a significant technological innovation.
Why is the year 1984 so well-known?
Besides the cultural and technological events, the year is famously associated with George Orwell’s dystopian novel Nineteen Eighty-Four.