1971: Between 1965 and 1971, reported crime rates in New York City rise by 91 percent.

Today: Violent crime rates go down in the United States and in New York during the first years of the twenty-first century, but in 2005, they start to rise again.

1971: On January 14, twenty-five thousand members of Patrolmen's Benevolent Association in New York City go on strike.

Today: Labor unions are weakened by plant closings, especially those in the auto industry and in job outsourcing to overseas companies where labor is cheaper.

1971: On June 13, racists attack a Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City, which results in hundreds being injured.

Today: Minorities have gained prominent positions in business and government, including former secretary of state Colin Powell and Hispanic senator Jon Corzine.