The "Summer of Darkness" refers to a period in 1976 when a series of violent events and social unrest occurred in the United States, particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles. This summer was marked by a rise in crime rates, including gang violence and riots, which created a sense of fear and instability among residents. During this time, the media extensively covered the events, leading to heightened public anxiety. The term encapsulates the broader issues of urban decay, economic challenges, and racial tensions that were prevalent in many American cities during the 1970s.