From chaos to hope

The massive power failure that plunged New York City into darkness during the evening rush hour on November 9, 1965, had one hopeful aspect. What stood out during the 12-hour blackout was the extraordinary spirit of cooperation that millions of complete strangers showed each other under extremely trying circumstances. More than 800,000 homeward-bound workers, suddenly caught in crowded subway trains, kept their heads and maintained a sense of humor. Countless thousands of others, trapped in mid-air in skyscraper elevators, not only avoided panic but took their prolonged confinement with friendly resignation. Off-duty police, firemen and other city personnel hurried back to their posts even before being summoned. Many persons brought candles, flashlights to hospitals, helped operate manual generators and calmed fears of frightened patients. Teenagers showed remarkable initiative by stepping into the breach when traffic lights went out. They proved invaluable in keeping cars moving, thus preventing dangerous jams. Motorists gave rides to stranded pedestrians. And on top of everything, looting and other crimes were below average, despite the darkness that engulfed the city that night.