Summary
The Power Broker, Robert A. Caro's monumental biography of Robert Moses, is a seminal work that exposes the inner workings of power in 20th century New York. Published in 1974, this Pulitzer Prize-winning book meticulously details how Moses, an unelected official, became the most influential force in shaping the city's physical and political landscape for over four decades.
Caro's exhaustive research, spanning seven years and over 500 interviews, provides unprecedented insight into Moses's methods of accumulating and wielding power. The book reveals how Moses transformed from an idealistic reformer into a master manipulator of the political system, using his control over public authorities to bypass democratic processes and reshape New York according to his vision.
At 1,336 pages, The Power Broker is a testament to Caro's dedication to uncovering the truth behind Moses's legacy. The book's impact extends far beyond New York, offering valuable lessons on urban planning, political maneuvering, and the consequences of unchecked power. It remains a crucial read for anyone seeking to understand the forces that shape our cities and the delicate balance between progress and preservation.
Plot
Robert Caro's The Power Broker chronicles the life and career of Robert Moses, a man who shaped New York City's landscape for much of the 20th century. The book begins by exploring Moses's early life, from his upbringing in Connecticut to his education at Yale and Oxford. It details his initial forays into public service, where he championed civil service reform and earned a reputation as an idealistic reformer.
As the narrative progresses, Caro reveals how Moses transitioned from an idealist to a power broker. Through his work on public parks and ambitious projects like the Triborough Bridge, Moses accumulated unprecedented influence. The book illustrates how he leveraged his positions on various boards and authorities to become an indispensable figure in New York's political landscape, despite never holding elected office.
Caro meticulously documents Moses's transformation, showing how he gradually prioritized control over public good. The biography delves into Moses's preference for automobile-centric development over mass transit, his lavish lifestyle, and his methods of rewarding allies and punishing opponents. It details the construction of numerous highways, bridges, and housing projects that reshaped New York, often at the expense of existing communities.
