Hippie Life in the 1960s: A Memory of California
The 1960s were a transformative period in American history, marked by significant social and cultural shifts. Among the movements that emerged during this time, the hippie culture in California stands out as a beacon of peace, love, and freedom. As someone who was born in 1971, I grew up hearing stories about the 'Summer of Love' from my father who served in Vietnam. This article explores the experiences of being a hippie in California during the 1960s, drawing from both personal recollections and historical accounts.
Introduction to the Hippie Movement
During the mid-1960s, the hippie movement in California thrived in areas such as Haight-Ashbury and the Panhandle. These districts became hubs for a community that believed in the power of love and peace to change the world. The movement was driven by a desire to break away from traditional societal norms and embrace a more spiritual and communal lifestyle. The term 'hippie' was used to describe individuals who rejected materialism and embraced a lifestyle centered around nature and personal freedom.
Coming of Age in the Mid-1960s
I was 17 years old in the Summer of Love, a time when the hippie culture was at its peak. While I was born in 1971, I lived in San Jose during the late 1960s and early 1970s, and I had the opportunity to visit San Francisco and witness firsthand the vibrant and peaceful allure of the hippie movement. San Francisco was a hotbed for cultural experimentation, with numerous concert venues like the Fillmore and Winterland hosting some of the most famous musical performances of the era.
The Haight-Ashbury District
Black Panthers and the Police Vigilance
The Haight-Ashbury district was a melting pot of various social and political movements. The Black Panthers were actively growing stronger, and their confrontations with the police were frequent. Despite the tensions, the district remained a haven for many peace-seeking individuals. Street musicians played acoustic music in the Panhandle, and dance performances were common, even with people dancing topless in warm weather. Nursing mothers were also seen breastfeeding openly, reflecting the hippie community's approach to expression and acceptance of natural behaviors.
The Diggers and Free Stores
The Diggers, a collective of activists, believed that money was a corrupting force and sought to eliminate its influence. They opened a free store in the Haight district and founded a free clinic. These initiatives demonstrated the hippie community's commitment to creating a utopian society based on shared resources and mutual support. Although the free clinic has since moved to the Mission District, the legacy of the Diggers and their philosophy continues to inspire social movements.
End of the Hippie Era
Unfortunately, the hippie movement faced significant challenges as it did not remain stagnant. As peace and love began to crumble under the weight of the Vietnam War and the rise of stronger drugs, the district experienced a decline. However, even today, Haight-Ashbury retains much of its vibrant and diverse character. Stores that once closed have reopened, and the district continues to attract both visitors and residents.
Personal Reflections and Current State
My father, who served in Vietnam from 1963 to 1967, had a mixed reaction to the hippie movement. Although he was initially hesitant, he eventually came to understand the disillusionment and corruption surrounding the war. The Viet Cong's resistance to the war and the U.S. government’s lies about the conflict were deeply influencing the hippie mindset. My father built a machine shop with expertise from the service and the GI Bill, gradually growing out his hair in the late 1960s after the local band Brewer and Shipley gained popularity.
The PENTAGON papers had a significant impact on public awareness, leading to greater skepticism about government actions. My father’s decision to hire some hippies and bikers in his auto electrical business in Harrisonville, Missouri, in 1973 was audacious and bold, reflecting the changing societal attitudes and the interconnectedness of different cultural movements.
Conclusion
The legacy of the hippie movement in California during the 1960s remains a poignant reminder of the transformative power of collective ideals and beliefs. The Haight-Ashbury district, now a museum of sorts, continues to attract those who seek inspiration and community. Although challenges faced by the hippie community eventually led to changes in the district, the spirit of peace, love, and experimentation endures. The rebirth of Haight-Ashbury today, with enterprises like the Ben Jerry's shop at the corner of Haight and Ashbury, symbolizes the ongoing importance of these ideals in contemporary society.