Throngs of locals lined the Capital’s streets to welcome home local sprinter Allan Wells, who was fresh from winning Olympic gold in Moscow for the 100m dash.
In the world of football, Hearts, having been relegated for the first time in their history, won the First Division at the first attempt and were back in the top flight by the summer.
Take a look through our photo gallery for a nostalgic trip back to 1980 – and let us know your favourite pictures in the comments section.
9. Gumley drinking fountain 1980
This public drinking fountain dedicated to Lindsay D Gumley at the corner of Waverley Bridge and Princes Street in Edinburgh, August 1980. Photo: George Smith
10. Health Service demo 1980
Demonstrators from Nalgo and other trade unions protesting about the cuts to the National Health Service in Edinburgh, September 1980. The marchers make their way up Lothian Road to the Caley cinema. Photo: Ian Porteous
11. Danny Miller at Castle Trades hotel 1980
Danny Miller, project organiser at the Castle Trades hotel, a hostel for homeless men in the Grassmarket Edinburgh. Mr Miller outside the hotel in May 1980. Photo: Bill Stout
12. Mons Meg taken for testing 1980
Mons Meg, the cannon from Edinburgh Castle, was removed and taken to the North British Steel Groups works at Armadale for testing in January 1980. Photo: Bill Newton