What did people do in the 1970s, before the internet?

As to the original question, more accurately before the internet, there was more face-to-face interaction/socializing, for better and worse. You just had to deal with people more.

This made it more difficult for those of us on the spectrum, I can tell you that. You couldn't control your interactions nearly as easily (such as leaving it for when you're feeling more "up to it"), and many, many people had neither the desire or knowledge to deal with people who were a little different. While there is a loss in not interacting with so many people, as even if shy and reserved, you had to learn to some degree how to cope (say going out with friends to a local restaurant/hangout), it was also less safe, as you never knew who might be dangerous in various ways.

All in all, although I have many good memories in growing up in the 70s & 80s (though a lot of them were when I was by myself), having the internet around would have made a lot of things easier & safer (physically, socially, emotionally & psychologically). Being different wasn't easy.
 
Grew up in the 70’s. Graduated high school in 72
Was a much simpler time.. no cell phones for sure.
We walked everywhere. To Rick’s house to see if he’s home, then to Nancy’s.
We listened to rock and roll groups on the radio and stereo.
We got cars and started exploring past our neighborhoods.
Things were calmer and I’d say safer
 
I was a kid in the 70s, graduated mid-80s.
Things were much slower.
Without streaming, we all watched the same stuff, so everyone could talk about Star Wars or MASH.
We made mix tapes based on whatever albums we had or else waited for a song to come on the radio.
Rode bikes everywhere, moms never knew where we were, just needed to be back by dinner.
Music was better.
 
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