Exploring the historical journey of hitchhiking from the 1950s to the 1970s, this chapter delves into societal fears and attitudes towards this form of travel. From J. Edgar Hoover's crusade against hitchhiking to the influence of media sensationalism and high-profile crimes, the chapter paints a vivid picture of the evolving perceptions around hitchhiking. It touches on the decline of hitchhiking in the mid-70s, influenced by factors like increasing car ownership and safety concerns, highlighting the broader societal shifts that impacted its popularity.