But the 80s also gave us classic films, from E.T. to The Terminator, and taught us to let our hair down and enjoy the riot of neon colours and the infectious power ballads that soundtracked the decade.
For all that was wrong with the 80s, it was also the decade in which the world came together like never before for the era-defining Live Aid concerts.
This retro photo gallery captures the best of the 80s around Sheffield, from fun-filled family days out to popular pubs and restaurants.
Crowds are seen gathering round the bandstand on The Moor to enjoy live music, Castle Market is thronged with shoppers, and swimmers are shown splashing in the blazing sunshine at Millhouses Lido.
Lost pubs, a famous old cinema, cheap bus travel and the chance to be an extra in a major BBC film are among the other highlights of this trip down memory lane.
Do these nostalgic images bring back any happy memories for you of life in the 80s?
1. Hanrahan's
Staff at Hanrahan's Bar, Glossop Road, Sheffield, in 1984 | Sheffield Newspapers Ltd Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
2. Domino
The Domino pub in Broomhall, Sheffield, on the site of the now demolished Broomhall flats, in May 1984 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
3. Queue for tickets
Fans queue for tickets for the fourth round FA Cup match at Sheffield Wednesday's Hillsborough Stadium on January 11, 1984 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
4. Farfield
The Farfield pub, on Neepsend Lane, Sheffield, in September 1984 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers