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?
17. Bandstand
The Oughtibridge Brass Band play at the bandstand on The Moor, Sheffield, in 1984 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
18. Pub of the year
Wilf and Lucy Carlin, licensees of the now demolished Devonshire Arms, on Ecclesall Road, Sheffield, pictured after it was named CAMRA Pub of the Year in July 1986 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
19. At the bar
The snug-cum-smoke room at the Alexandra Hotel, on Exchange Street, Sheffield, in 1984 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers
20. ABC Cinema
The ABC Cinema, on Angel Street, Sheffield, on August 29, 1985, when it was showing The Never Ending Story, The Care Bears Movie, and Police Academy 2 | Sheffield Newspapers Photo: Sheffield Newspapers