Demonstration at American Independence Ball, 4th July 1973 at Majestic Cabaret

A rambunctious demonstration on the 4th July 1973. Each year the American embassy held a ball at the Majestic Cabaret, Willis St in Wellington New Zealand to celebrate American Independence day. Many guests dressed to the nines attended. This year they were greeted by protestors voicing their disagreement with American involvement in the Vietnam war. As the crowd tried to gain entrance to the building it turned into a night of exploding crackers, paint bombs, jeering crowds and arrests.    

Photographer: Keith Stewart