History's Best Selling Products of 1970

1. M*A*S*H

   Released in 1970 by Robert Altman, 20th Century Fox

   The launch of Robert Altman's 'M*A*S*H' on January 25, 1970, marked a pivotal moment in cinematic history, setting the stage for a film that would not only achieve monumental box office success but also redefine the war film genre. Premiering in New York City, this darkly comedic masterpiece quickly captivated audiences with its irreverent humor and anti-establishment tone, striking a chord with a generation questioning authority and the Vietnam War. Its immediate impact was immense, proving that a film could be both critically acclaimed and a commercial powerhouse, shattering expectations for what a Hollywood production could achieve both artistically and financially, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of its era.

2. Bridge Over Troubled Water

   Released in 1970 by Simon & Garfunkel, Columbia Records

   On January 26, 1970, the music world received a masterpiece that would also serve as a poignant farewell. Simon & Garfunkel released their fifth and final studio album, "Bridge Over Troubled Water." The release came at a time of significant cultural and social change, and the album's themes of hope, friendship, and passage resonated deeply with a global audience. Despite the immense personal and creative friction between Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel during its production, the album became their most successful work, a testament to their fractured but brilliant partnership. It immediately captured the zeitgeist, offering both solace and sophisticated musicality, and its release is a landmark moment in the history of popular music.

3. Black Sabbath

   Released in 1970 by Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, Bill Ward, Vertigo Records

   On Friday, February 13th, 1970, the world of music was irrevocably altered. With the sound of a thunderstorm, a tolling funeral bell, and a monstrous three-note guitar riff, the debut album *Black Sabbath* was unleashed upon an unsuspecting public. This release didn't just launch a band; it single-handedly birthed a new genre. The ominous release date was no coincidence, perfectly heralding the arrival of a sound that was darker, heavier, and more foreboding than anything that had come before, creating the foundational text for what would become known as heavy metal.

4. Love Story

   Released in 1970 by Erich Segal, Harper & Row

   Love Story burst onto the literary scene in 1970, instantly captivating a generation and becoming an unprecedented cultural phenomenon. Penned by Erich Segal, this seemingly simple tale of star-crossed lovers transcended mere storytelling to become a defining narrative of the era. Its release sparked a nationwide conversation about love, loss, and the poignant fragility of life, solidifying its place as more than just a book, but a shared emotional experience. The novel’s raw honesty and universal themes resonated deeply, making it a ubiquitous presence on bookshelves and a topic of countless discussions, firmly establishing its legend from its very first print run.

5. Airport

   Released in 1970 by George Seaton, Universal Pictures

   March 5, 1970, marked a pivotal moment in cinematic history with the North American theatrical release of 'Airport.' This date introduced audiences to a new standard of cinematic spectacle and high-stakes drama, solidifying its place as a groundbreaking disaster film. A massive box office success, 'Airport' became the highest-grossing film of 1970, capturing the imagination of millions and demonstrating the immense commercial potential of star-studded ensemble casts and thrilling, realistic narratives. Its arrival was not just another movie premiere; it was a cultural event that set new benchmarks for the disaster genre and influenced countless films that followed, making this release date truly special.

6. Woodstock

   Released in 1970 by Michael Wadleigh, Warner Bros.

   March 26, 1970, marked a pivotal moment in cinematic history with the North American theatrical premiere of 'Woodstock.' This groundbreaking documentary not only captured the spirit of a generation but also broke box office records for its genre, setting a new benchmark for concert films. Its initial release transformed it into an instant cultural touchstone, allowing millions to experience the legendary 1969 festival, whether they were there or wished they had been. The film's launch was more than just a movie premiere; it was the definitive cinematic encapsulation of the counterculture movement, ensuring that the three days of peace and music would resonate far beyond the Bethel, New York, fields.

7. Elton John

   Released in 1970 by Elton John, DJM Records, Uni Records

   On April 10, 1970, American audiences were formally introduced to the genius of Elton John with the US release of his self-titled second studio album. While his debut 'Empty Sky' had gone largely unnoticed, this record would prove to be his transatlantic breakthrough. The album's release on this date marked the beginning of his ascent to global superstardom, powered by the monumental success of its lead single, 'Your Song.' It was a pivotal moment that established the iconic songwriter-performer as a major new voice in popular music, setting the stage for a decade of unparalleled chart dominance and creative output that would define an era.

8. McCartney

   Released in 1970 by Paul McCartney, Apple Records

   Released on April 17, 1970, Paul McCartney's solo debut, "McCartney," served as the public's de facto announcement of The Beatles' dissolution. Though John Lennon had privately left the band months earlier, the group's split was not yet common knowledge. McCartney's decision to release his solo work, complete with a self-interview in the press kit confirming he was on a "break" from the band and saw no future for the Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership, effectively ended the world's most famous musical act. The album's arrival just weeks before The Beatles' own "Let It Be" caused internal friction but also cemented this date as a pivotal moment in music history, marking the end of one era and the defiant start of another.

9. Let It Be

   Released in 1970 by The Beatles, Apple Records

   Released on May 8, 1970, "Let It Be" was a bittersweet farewell from the most influential band in popular music history. The album arrived a month after Paul McCartney had publicly announced his departure, formalizing the breakup of The Beatles. Its release was not the triumphant culmination of a project, but rather the posthumous assembly of sessions recorded over a year earlier, originally intended for a back-to-basics TV special. This specific date marks the moment fans could finally hear the last collection of new songs from the Fab Four, serving as a complex and often somber epitaph to a legendary career that had permanently changed the face of music.

10. Deep Purple in Rock

    Released in 1970 by Deep Purple, Harvest Records

    On June 3, 1970, the landscape of rock music was irrevocably altered with the release of Deep Purple's "Deep Purple in Rock." The album marked a seismic shift for the band, solidifying its classic "Mark II" lineup—featuring Ian Gillan on vocals and Roger Glover on bass—and unleashing a sound that was harder, faster, and more aggressive than anything they had previously produced. Released into a world still dominated by blues-rock and psychedelia, "In Rock" was a declaration of intent, a foundational text for what would become heavy metal and hard rock. Its release on this day wasn't just another album drop; it was the firing of a starting pistol for a new, heavier era in music history.

11. Catch-22

    Released in 1970 by Mike Nichols, Paramount Pictures

    The cinematic adaptation of Joseph Heller's seminal novel, "Catch-22," burst onto screens with its New York City premiere on June 24, 1970. This pivotal date marked the arrival of a satirical war film that promised to translate the book's biting wit and anti-war sentiment to a new medium. Directed by the acclaimed Mike Nichols, the movie was a significant cultural event, drawing immense anticipation from fans of the novel and critics alike. While its box office performance was solid, reflecting its artistic ambition, the true significance of this date lies in its introduction of a visually striking and darkly comedic interpretation of one of the 20th century's most profound literary works, sparking widespread discussion about its themes of absurdity and futility in wartime.

12. Tomica

    Released in 1970 by Takara Tomy

    Launched in August 1970, Tomica swiftly cemented its place as a beloved cornerstone of Japanese toy culture and beyond. At a time when foreign die-cast cars dominated the market, Tomica emerged as a uniquely Japanese answer, featuring meticulously crafted replicas of domestic vehicles. Its introduction was a cultural phenomenon, offering children not just toys, but miniature versions of the cars they saw on their streets, fostering a deep connection and immediate popularity. This innovative approach quickly transformed it from a novelty into an iconic and enduring brand, capturing the imaginations of generations of children and collectors alike, and fundamentally shaping the die-cast toy landscape.

13. The Mary Tyler Moore Show

    Released in 1970 by James L. Brooks and Allan Burns, CBS

    On September 19, 1970, American television audiences were introduced to a new kind of woman when "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" premiered on CBS. In an era where female television characters were largely defined as wives and mothers, the debut of Mary Richards—a single, 30-year-old career woman moving to a new city after a breakup—was a landmark event. The premiere established the show's foundational themes of female independence, friendship, and the concept of a 'workplace family'. This specific date marks the beginning of a seven-season run that would not only garner critical acclaim and numerous awards but also fundamentally shift cultural conversations and the portrayal of women in media.

14. Tora! Tora! Tora!

    Released in 1970 by Richard Fleischer, Kinji Fukasaku, Toshio Masuda, 20th Century Fox

    On September 23, 1970, the monumental war epic "Tora! Tora! Tora!" premiered, offering audiences an unprecedented, dual-perspective look at the attack on Pearl Harbor. This date marked the launch of a film that was not only ambitious in its scope and historical accuracy but also groundbreaking in its unique American-Japanese co-production. While its box office performance was initially met with mixed reviews regarding profitability, the film quickly established itself as a definitive cinematic recounting of one of history's most pivotal moments, providing an immersive, moment-by-moment reconstruction of the events leading up to and during the devastating surprise attack. Its meticulous attention to detail and even-handed portrayal cemented its place as a cornerstone of war cinema.

15. Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs

    Released in 1970 by Derek and the Dominos, Atco Records, Polydor Records

    Released on November 9, 1970, 'Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs' arrived not with a bang, but with a slow, smoldering burn that would eventually ignite into one of rock history's most revered double albums. At the time, Eric Clapton was seeking anonymity after the superfame of Cream and Blind Faith, hence the band name Derek and the Dominos. The album's release date marks the moment the public first heard this raw, impassioned collection of songs, largely born from Clapton's unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, the wife of his best friend George Harrison. This emotional turmoil fueled a creative firestorm, resulting in a work of unparalleled vulnerability and musical intensity.

16. All Things Must Pass

    Released in 1970 by George Harrison, Apple Records, EMI

    On November 27, 1970, the music world received a monumental statement from the so-called "quiet Beatle." George Harrison's "All Things Must Pass" was not just his first post-Beatles solo album; it was a sprawling, ambitious triple-album that unleashed years of pent-up creative energy. For years, Harrison's songwriting contributions to The Beatles were overshadowed by the Lennon-McCartney powerhouse, leading him to amass a significant backlog of songs. This release date marks the moment he stepped firmly out of that shadow, revealing the full breadth of his spiritual and musical vision to an eager public and redefining his artistic identity for the decade to come.

17. The Owl and the Pussycat

    Released in 1970 by Herbert Ross, Columbia Pictures

    The cinematic landscape of 1970 received a jolt of quirky charm and undeniable star power with the premiere of "The Owl and the Pussycat." Launching in New York City on December 2, 1970, this romantic comedy, starring the incomparable Barbra Streisand and the effortlessly charming George Segal, quickly established itself as a significant entry in the year's film releases. Marking a fresh take on the classic battle of the sexes, the film's initial debut heralded a successful box office run, pulling in substantial rentals for Columbia Pictures and cementing its place as a beloved picture that resonated with audiences seeking both laughter and a touch of genuine human connection. The December 2nd premiere was a crucial moment, setting the stage for its wider release and subsequent commercial success, capturing the unique spirit of its time with wit and style.

18. Ryan's Daughter

    Released in 1970 by David Lean, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

    The world first witnessed David Lean's sweeping romantic epic, 'Ryan's Daughter,' on December 9, 1970, with its grand premiere in London. This date marked the highly anticipated return of the acclaimed director following the immense success of 'Doctor Zhivago.' Lean poured years of his life and immense resources into crafting this ambitious tale, set against the breathtaking yet turbulent landscapes of early 20th-century Ireland. While it garnered initial critical disdain and struggled to replicate the box office glory of his previous works, its premiere was a significant cultural event, signaling a bold, albeit ultimately controversial, departure in epic storytelling. The film's challenging production and the scale of its ambition instantly cemented its place in cinematic lore, even before its complex legacy truly began to unfold.

19. Little Big Man

    Released in 1970 by Arthur Penn, National General Pictures

    On December 14, 1970, the cinematic landscape was forever altered with the premiere of 'Little Big Man' in New York City. This pivotal date marked the arrival of a groundbreaking film that redefined the Western genre, blending satire, adventure, and profound social commentary. Directed by Arthur Penn and starring Dustin Hoffman, the movie quickly garnered critical acclaim and became a significant box office success, challenging prevailing myths about the American frontier and Native American history. Its release during a period of intense social and political upheaval in the United States ensured its resonance, making this premiere date a landmark in film history for introducing a sophisticated and unconventional narrative.

20. Love Story

    Released in 1970 by Arthur Hiller, Paramount Pictures

    On December 16, 1970, the heartbreaking romance 'Love Story' premiered in New York City, igniting a cultural phenomenon that would sweep the nation. This date marked the beginning of an extraordinary box office run for a film that redefined the romantic drama for a generation. Propelled by its unforgettable tagline, 'What can you say about a twenty-five-year-old girl who died?', the movie captured hearts with its raw emotional intensity and timeless tale of star-crossed lovers. Its premiere set the stage for one of the highest-grossing films of its era, solidifying its place as a classic tearjerker.

21. H to He, Who Am the Only One

    Released in 1970 by Van der Graaf Generator, Charisma Records

    On December 20, 1970, the landscape of progressive rock was further defined with the UK release of "H to He, Who Am the Only One" by Van der Graaf Generator. This third album from the band marked a pivotal moment, showcasing their increasingly complex and dark thematic explorations. Released during a golden era for the genre, the album solidified the band's reputation for challenging musical conventions, blending saxophone, organ, and Peter Hammill's distinctive vocals into a sound that was both intellectually stimulating and emotionally raw. The release positioned them as one of the most adventurous and uncompromising acts of their time, distinct even from peers like King Crimson and Genesis.

22. Music from The Body

    Released in 1970 by Roger Waters, Ron Geesin, Harvest Records

    Released in the United States on December 24, 1970, 'Music from The Body' arrived as a peculiar and challenging offering for the holiday season. The album is the soundtrack to Roy Battersby's documentary 'The Body', which explored human biology in graphic detail. Its Christmas Eve release date positioned it as a stark piece of counter-programming against the festive cheer, appealing to a more experimental and avant-garde audience. This was a period of immense creativity for Roger Waters, who was simultaneously pushing the boundaries of rock music with Pink Floyd. The release served as a fascinating side project, showcasing his and collaborator Ron Geesin's interest in musique concrète and conceptual art outside the confines of a major rock band.

23. The Aristocats

    Released in 1970 by Wolfgang Reitherman, Walt Disney Productions

    Premiering on December 24, 1970, 'The Aristocats' was strategically released by Disney to capture the family audience during the Christmas holiday period, a successful formula for the studio. The film holds a poignant place in Disney's history, as it was the final animated feature film to be personally approved by Walt Disney before his death in 1966. Its release marked the end of an era and served as a test for whether the studio's animation department, now under the guidance of director Wolfgang Reitherman and the legendary animators known as the 'Nine Old Men', could continue to produce magical, successful films without their visionary founder's direct oversight. The film's warm reception proved that the magic was indeed still there.

24. Clog

    Released in 1970 by Traditional, Multiple regional artisans

    The clog, a shoe with roots stretching back centuries, surprisingly blossomed into a global fashion sensation in the 1970s. Shifting from its humble origins as durable, protective workwear in agricultural and industrial settings across Europe and Asia, it found an unexpected niche in mainstream fashion. This sudden leap from utilitarian footwear to a style icon was fueled by a cultural shift towards more relaxed, natural aesthetics and a desire for comfort without sacrificing distinctive style. Its chunky silhouette and rustic charm captured the zeitgeist of the era, quickly establishing itself as a must-have item in wardrobes worldwide, marking a significant cultural and commercial success.

25. Dawn doll

    Released in 1970 by Topper Corporation

    The Dawn doll burst onto the toy scene in 1970, introduced by Topper Corporation, and quickly established itself as a vibrant sensation in the highly competitive fashion doll market. Offering a distinctly smaller, more affordable, and trend-setting alternative to the dominant Barbie, Dawn's compact size, array of mod fashions, and accessible price point resonated instantly with children and parents alike. This enabled extensive collecting and imaginative play, positioning Dawn as a significant commercial success. For a brief but brilliant period, she carved out a memorable niche in early 1970s toy culture, proving that a smaller doll could still make a colossal impact.

26. Game of the Generals

    Released in 1970 by G.O.G. Corporation, Sofronio H. Pasola Jr.

    The year 1970 marked the debut of 'Game of the Generals,' a strategic board game that would soon become a cultural phenomenon and a beloved national pastime in the Philippines. Invented by Sofronio H. Pasola Jr., this game quickly captivated the Filipino populace with its blend of military strategy, deception, and deduction. Far from being just another board game, 'Game of the Generals' resonated deeply with players, finding its way into homes, schools, and even military academies. Its immediate popularity stemmed from its accessible yet profound gameplay, offering a fresh take on classic war games while incorporating elements of hidden information and psychological warfare, making it an instant classic upon its introduction.

27. Hotpants

    Released in 1970 by Mary Quant, Jacques Esterel

    The early 1970s ushered in a bold and undeniably provocative fashion trend: hotpants. Coined by Women's Wear Daily in 1970, this term described a new wave of extremely short shorts that immediately captured the imagination of a generation. Far from being merely a fleeting style, hotpants became an emblem of burgeoning youth culture, sexual liberation, and a daring approach to self-expression. Their launch sparked both controversy and widespread adoption, rapidly transitioning from high fashion runways into mainstream wardrobes and cementing their status as a defining cultural and commercial success of the decade.

28. Islands in the Stream

    Released in 1970 by Ernest Hemingway, Charles Scribner's Sons

    The posthumous publication of Ernest Hemingway's 'Islands in the Stream' in 1970 was a literary event that captured widespread public attention. Arriving nearly a decade after the author's death, this 'new' work from a Nobel laureate generated immense anticipation among his vast readership and critics alike. It quickly soared onto bestseller lists, becoming one of the top-selling novels of the year. Its unique blend of autobiographical elements, a poignant narrative, and Hemingway's signature prose style made it an instant cultural phenomenon, demonstrating the enduring power and mystique of his literary legacy even from beyond the grave, and offering a fresh glimpse into his artistic process and personal struggles.

29. Jonathan Livingston Seagull

    Released in 1970 by Richard Bach, Macmillan Publishers

    Upon its launch in 1970, Richard Bach's 'Jonathan Livingston Seagull' was not just a book; it was an unexpected cultural phenomenon that soared to unprecedented heights of popularity. Released at a time of significant social change and spiritual searching, the novella quickly captivated millions worldwide. Its simple yet profound allegorical narrative, paired with striking black-and-white photographs by Russell Munson, offered a message of self-discovery and purpose that resonated deeply. It became an instant bestseller, transcending traditional literary boundaries and emerging as a beacon of inspiration for a generation seeking meaning beyond the mundane, solidifying its place as a significant literary and cultural touchstone.

30. Mastermind

    Released in 1970 by Invicta Plastics, Mordecai Meirowitz

    First introduced in 1970, Mastermind quickly captured the imagination of players worldwide, emerging as a cultural phenomenon in the realm of logic puzzles. This two-player deduction game, originally published by Invicta Plastics, leveraged a deceptively simple premise to offer deep strategic challenge. Its immediate popularity stemmed from its accessible rules combined with an engaging intellectual struggle, making it a staple in households and classrooms alike. The game's vibrant components and the thrilling mental duel it presented ensured its rapid ascent to commercial success, establishing it as an iconic entry in the world of classic board games almost overnight.

31. QB VII

    Released in 1970 by Leon Uris, Doubleday

    In 1970, Leon Uris's 'QB VII' exploded onto the literary scene, quickly establishing itself as one of the year's most compelling and talked-about novels. This legal drama, steeped in the harrowing realities of the Holocaust, captivated readers with its intricate plot and profound moral questions. It wasn't just a book; it was a cultural event that prompted widespread discussion about justice, memory, and accountability for wartime atrocities. Its immense popularity reflected a society grappling with the lingering shadows of World War II, making 'QB VII' a poignant and powerful mirror to its times, drawing millions into its intense courtroom narrative from its very first pages.

32. Rich Man, Poor Man

    Released in 1970 by Irwin Shaw, Delacorte Press

    Upon its release in 1970, Irwin Shaw's 'Rich Man, Poor Man' immediately captured the American imagination, soaring to prominence as a highly anticipated and discussed novel. It wasn't just a book; it was a sprawling epic that tapped into the nation's evolving consciousness, chronicling the post-World War II era through the lens of one unforgettable family. Its compelling narrative, rich characters, and profound exploration of class and ambition made it an instant cultural phenomenon, setting the stage for unprecedented success in both print and later, on television, cementing its place in the literary landscape of the early 1970s.

33. Tandy-12

    Released in 1970 by Unknown

    The Tandy-12 burst onto the toy scene in 1970, immediately capturing the imagination of children across the globe. Marketed as an 'interactive robot companion,' this distinctive action figure offered something novel: basic mechanical movement in an era dominated by static dolls and vehicles. Its launch coincided with a growing public fascination with technology and space exploration, positioning the Tandy-12 as a futuristic plaything that allowed kids to engage with a vision of tomorrow. Its instant popularity stemmed from its blend of science fiction appeal and tangible play, quickly establishing it as a must-have item during holiday seasons and cementing its place as a memorable toy of the decade.

34. The Bluest Eye

    Released in 1970 by Toni Morrison, Holt, Rinehart and Winston

    [Toni Morrison]'s "The Bluest Eye," published in 1970, stands as a seminal work in American literature, marking the arrival of a powerful new voice that would redefine the landscape of contemporary fiction. Released during a tumultuous period in American history, following the Civil Rights Movement and amidst burgeoning Black Power and feminist movements, the novel resonated deeply with the era's critical examination of societal structures and racial injustice. Its profound exploration of internalized racism, the devastating impact of white beauty standards on Black identity, and the pervasive effects of poverty and abuse, positioned it as a groundbreaking text. The book forced readers to confront uncomfortable truths about American society, laying bare the psychological wounds inflicted by systemic oppression.

35. The Crystal Cave

    Released in 1970 by Mary Stewart, William Morrow and Company

    Published in 1970, 'The Crystal Cave' by Mary Stewart burst onto the literary scene, quickly becoming a significant commercial and critical success. At a time when historical fiction was popular and a yearning for mythic narratives was growing, Stewart’s fresh take on the Arthurian legend resonated deeply with readers. It wasn't just a bestselling novel; it was a cultural phenomenon that revitalized an ancient myth, bringing the enigmatic figure of Merlin to life with unprecedented depth and realism. Its immediate popularity signaled a shift in how audiences approached familiar tales, eager for grounded, human perspectives on legendary figures, making it a standout publication of its year.

36. The Halter Jumpsuit

    Released in 1970 by Halston, Yves Saint Laurent

    The Halter Jumpsuit burst onto the fashion scene as a defining garment of the late 1960s and early 1970s, perfectly encapsulating the era's spirit of liberation, glamour, and youthful exuberance. While its elements had existed separately, their fusion into a single, sleek silhouette created an instant sensation. It swiftly moved from high-fashion runways to becoming a ubiquitous sight on disco dance floors and celebrity red carpets, offering women a sophisticated yet daring alternative to traditional evening wear. Its immediate success lay in its ability to combine comfort with undeniable sex appeal, marking a significant shift in women's fashion towards more dynamic and body-conscious designs.

37. The Secret Woman

    Released in 1970 by Victoria Holt, Doubleday

    In 1970, the literary world eagerly anticipated the latest offering from Victoria Holt, a name synonymous with captivating gothic romance, and 'The Secret Woman' did not disappoint. Its release was met with immediate enthusiasm, quickly climbing bestseller lists and cementing Holt's reputation as a master of suspenseful historical fiction. The novel's compelling blend of mystery, romance, and a distinctly atmospheric setting made it an instant cultural phenomenon, perfectly aligning with the public's appetite for escapist narratives featuring strong heroines navigating dangerous secrets. Its success was a testament to Holt's consistent ability to craft stories that resonated deeply with a broad readership, making it one of the definitive reads of the era.

38. Tube top

    Released in 1970 by Various Manufacturers

    The tube top burst onto the fashion scene in the early 1970s, quickly becoming a defining, yet deceptively simple, garment for a generation seeking effortless style. Emerging from humble beginnings as a basic fabric tube, it capitalized on a growing desire for casual, comfortable, and liberating attire. Its immediate popularity wasn't tied to a specific haute couture designer or a high-profile fashion show, but rather to its accessible design and adaptability, making it an instant commercial success and a cultural touchstone for youthful self-expression. It offered a fresh, unencumbered silhouette that resonated with the era's relaxed aesthetic, rapidly transitioning from a novelty item to a wardrobe staple.