But one of the longest industrial actions in history would not be forgotten by the communities across Sunderland, Durham and South Tyneside who lived through it all.
Today, we are looking back on photographic memories from a year of unrest which had a profound effect on communities.
From marching miners to picket lines, food parcels and the behind the scenes supporters, we have it all in these Sunderland Echo archive scenes.
10. A powerful display in Westoe
Westoe Collliery miners marching behind their lodge banner during the 1984/1985 strike. | se
11. The end of the strike
A plea for peace and reconciliation in the coal industry was made a special miners' church service in Eppleton. The Rev Kingsley Haldale, minister of Hetton Methodist Church gave thanks that the year long miners' dispute had ended. | se