anti-pollution when did it start

I was used to '60's engines. Bought a 70 Duster, looked under the hood- what is this bs? 2 voltage regulators? What are these wires, and what di they do? Ripped it out, and taught it that it was a 68. 69, just venting hoses.

73, serious , lean burn. Carb, dist, jets in intake... Oh, 72, lower cr. On a 340, from 10.5 to 8.8?