GM trucks went to independent on 2wds in 1960, 1988 on full size 4x4 (s-10 had independant from the start in '84). It wasn't due to lack of technology, it was more due to durability and ease of manufacture/repair. Back then, most 4x4s were working vehicles used in harsh or rugged areas. They were also a relatively low production option, so tooling up and manufacturing a different suspesion didn't make sence from a dollar standpoint. There were some 4x4s with independant front suspension back then, it was an option on the Willys Jeep pickup and Wagon in the '50-early '60s. It was somewhat of a cross between the later ford twin traction beam and a regulat sla type suspension. It proved to be high maintanance due to balljoint wear and alignment issues. There were also some military vehicle that had not only ifs, but irs as well. The ford Mutt come to mind.
You might be surprized to hear this, but the tortion bar suspension that is used on modern GM trucks actually had its origin in the 1966 Cadillac ElDorado/Oldsmobile Toronado. It was first used on a 4x4 on the '84 S-10 pretty much intact from the passenger car, only the axle center section to allow for a center diconnect. Even the balljoints and shock absorber will swap. the version used in the full size in identical, only larger.
As far as preference goes, I like to keep the suspension that the chassis was designed for in place, possibly with some handling upgrades like anti-sway bars and gas charged shocks.
