Back then is a phrase that is often used to indicate a period of time in the past. However, there are many other synonyms that can be used instead. One popular option is the phrase "in those days," which has a similar meaning and emphasizes a specific era or time period. "Once upon a time," "long ago," and "in the olden days" are also commonly used phrases to convey a sense of nostalgia and historical distance. Other options include "in the past," " back in the day," and "previously." Regardless of the specific wording used, these synonyms evoke a sense of wistfulness and curiosity about what came before.