Final answer:
Daylight saving time in 1980 started on April 27 and ended on October 26, with the purpose of extending evening daylight by shifting clocks forward by one hour during the spring and summer months.
Step-by-step explanation:
In 1980, daylight saving time (DST) began on the last Sunday in April and ended on the last Sunday in October. Specifically, in 1980, DST started on April 27 and ended on October 26. The practice of setting clocks forward by one hour during the warmer part of the year is intended to extend evening daylight, allowing people to make better use of the light and save energy by reducing the need to use artificial lighting in the evenings.
Daylight saving time does not actually 'save' any daylight; rather, it shifts the perceived timing of daylight to better align with people's daily activities. This legislative action is simpler than having individuals or businesses change their schedules independently. It's important to note that the specific start and end dates of daylight saving time have varied over the years and are subject to change as legislation evolves.