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?
13. Boxing
Between rounds of the Commonwealth Lightweight Championship Boxing Match, featuring Herol Bomber Graham and defending champion Kenny Bristol, at Sheffield City Hall on October 28, 1981 | Picture Sheffield/Sheffield Newspapers Ltd Photo: Picture Sheffield/Sheffield Newspapers Ltd
14. Haircut
Inside Caesars Hair Salon in July 1984 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
15. Gaumont
The Gaumont Cinema, Barker's Pool, Sheffield, in November 1985, shortly before it was demolished | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
16. In the classroom
Pupils hard at work at Hucklow Middle School, Sheffield, in 1986 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers