The Golden Age of Serial Murders (jan 1, 1970 – jan 1, 2000)

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The golden age of serial murder spanned from the years 1970 to early 2000s. This era represented when the United States had reached its peak number of active serial killers. Some of the most notorious American serial killers reigned during this time, including Ted Bundy, Jeffrey Dahmer, and many more. The spike in serial murder can be accounted for by many cultural and environmental factors. Post World War Two and amid the Vietnam War, Americans had little to no knowledge on mental health, specifically Post Traumatic Stress Disorders. Many of these killers came from broken, dysfunctional homes, which were a byproduct of war, or personally suffered from these illnesses. In either situation, this was a huge contributing factor to these serial killer’s violent behavior and twisted perspectives. As well, the period of time between the 1970s to early 2000s was culturally a much more relaxed environment across the United States. People lived their lives without fear, being as careless as keeping their doors unlocked at night, and car hitchhiking with strangers. However, in the 1970s, with the spike of serial murders, it became apparent that times were changing, and with that came a shift in culture.

During this time, there were very few outlets of mass communication, than we have today. Media coverage played a vital role in bringing awareness to the public on current issues, as well as influencing public opinion. The media brought these killers, in particular men, into the national spotlight. Serial killers reached celebrity status during this period due to the public's fascination with their gruesome crimes and staggering murder counts. Mass media outlets told them it was okay to be invested in these killers, as in consuming pop culture about serial killers, they would gain a deeper understanding of psychology, and the American justice system. The media’s portrayal of serial killers during this era would set a precedent for the future. Serial killers, specifically one’s who murdered during this period, will forever be known in American history and pop culture. Their stories would be used as inspiration in film, television, and novels. In this virtual museum exhibit, we will explore how the media of the golden age of serial murders portrayed serial murders. In particular, the museum exhibit will discuss murders John Wayne Gacy (1970), Ted Bundy (1980), and Jeffrey Dahmer (1990), and how media outlets elicited morbid fascination and sympathy towards the convicted, influencing public perspective.

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