Hi Matthew,
  -Also building on what Ron May just posted, I really think it came around 
1970. I know for sure I had never heard of it in elementary school, but it 
was the 'in-thing' at some point in 6th grade, (1970-71).
  Now, maybe it was 'invented' before that, but just became popular at least 
where I was in 1970. Back then with no internet and limited television, fads 
took a little bit longer to spread. (I'm not an archaeologist BUT we are 
radio/TV/editing folks.)
  By the time I entered high school ('73), we were also beginning to see 
these same smiley faces in various colors instead of only yellow. (But of 
course those were never as popular as the yellow!)
  I do think it was very much tied in with the Nixon era, and wasn't Nixon 
always flashing the 'Peace' sign on television? So yes, the smiley face was 
tied in to 'Peace & Love and general happiness'. I believe the 'flower 
power' stuff may have started in the late-60s, so just before the smiley 
faces. (But you are right- not much difference.)
  If anyone ever has a chance to see old TV reruns of 'The Wonder Years', 
you'll get an accurate window into the fads of those times and even the 
political ties, especially if you pay attention to the small details in the 
show. (Folks my age won't need that, but for younger listmembers it may be 
helpful.)
  -Cami
 http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/NewChronology/
 http://stretchproductions.com/RohlProducts.html


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Matthew Tomaso" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, October 21, 2008 3:27 PM
Subject: Re: question re "happy face" pins


>I remember them from the early 70s as well.  I was never quite sure whether 
>to symbolically associate them with flower power or the 'don't worry be 
>happy' rhetoric of the Johnson and Nixon Administrations.  Perhaps there 
>isn't much difference.
>
> Matthew S. Tomaso, M. A., RPA
> Senior Archaeologist and Project Manager
> Cultural Resource Consulting Group
> O:  732-247-8880 x-30
> Cell:  908-875-0345