The Power Broker #12: Robert Caro
99% Invisible
Deep Dive
Why did Robert Moses resign from his city jobs?
Moses resigned from his city jobs to become the president of the 1964 World's Fair, hoping to use the fair as a means to build his dream park in Flushing Meadows, Queens.
What was the main issue with Robert Moses running the 1964 World's Fair?
Moses was more interested in using the fair to build a permanent park in Flushing Meadows rather than focusing on the temporary nature of the fair itself, leading to poor planning and execution.
How did the 1964 World's Fair impact Robert Moses' reputation?
The fair was a financial and organizational disaster, further tarnishing Moses' reputation as the public and press turned against him, viewing him as greedy and incompetent.
What was the significance of the 1964 World's Fair for Robert Moses' career?
The fair marked the beginning of the end for Moses' career, as it exposed his inability to manage large-scale events and led to his eventual loss of power and influence.
How did Robert Moses' relationship with his first wife, Mary, change over time?
Mary Moses deteriorated physically and emotionally, eventually becoming confined to a wheelchair. Moses began a relationship with a younger secretary, Mary Grady, while still supporting his first wife financially.
What was the turning point in Robert Moses' career?
The turning point was when Governor Nelson Rockefeller accepted Moses' resignation from his state posts, effectively stripping him of his power and marking the beginning of his decline.
How did Robert Moses attempt to regain power after the 1964 World's Fair?
Moses tried to use the leftover funds from the fair to build his park in Flushing Meadows, but the courts forced him to return some of the money to investors, limiting his ability to realize his vision.
What was the significance of the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority for Robert Moses?
Triborough was Moses' last remaining source of power, as it was the only public authority he still controlled after losing his other positions. It was also a significant source of funding for his projects.
How did Robert Moses' relationship with Mayor John Lindsay unfold?
Lindsay, a young and idealistic mayor, tried to challenge Moses' power but was outmaneuvered at every turn. Moses' knowledge of the system and his connections allowed him to maintain control over key projects and funding.
What was the final blow to Robert Moses' career?
The final blow came when Nelson Rockefeller, through his brother's control of Chase Bank (the bondholder trustee), orchestrated Moses' removal from the Triborough Authority, leaving him with no power or influence.
- Moses's mismanagement of the 1964 World's Fair led to financial losses and reputational damage.
- His focus on a long-term park project conflicted with the fair's temporary nature.
- The fair's poor attendance and lavish spending contributed to its failure.
- Moses's refusal to acknowledge the fair's problems and his dismissal of loyal aides exacerbated the situation.
- The decline of Moses's reputation coincided with his wife's declining health and his subsequent marriage.
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