The Power Broker at 50: Making of Robert Caro’s Pivotal Biography’ Webinar

How did one man over more than four decades amass the power to single-handedly shape New York City, all without ever being elected to public office? The full scope of that answer may never have come to light if it weren’t for Robert Caro’s monumental 1974 biography, The Power Broker, which exposed Robert Moses’ unprecedented influence over New York — a legacy carved into the city’s infrastructure. It’s time to dive into a behind-the-scenes look at the book that forever altered New York’s understanding of power, privilege, and urban development.

Join New York Adventure Club and The New York Historical as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Robert A. Caro’s The Power Broker with a deep dive into the museum’s special installation, “Robert Caro’s The Power Broker at 50,” which reveals the hidden costs behind Moses’ sweeping urban projects and highlights Caro’s groundbreaking investigative process.

Led by The New York Historical Curator Jeanne Gutierrez, our behind-the-scenes virtual experience focusing on artifacts displayed in the museum’s commemorative exhibition will include:

How Robert Caro uncovered the falseness behind the image that Robert Moses had so carefully cultivated — one that the press and public believed — to reveal the extent of Moses’ power and the heartbreaking human cost behind his public works.
Caro’s working process, including how he combed through files and interviewed those in Moses’ orbit to reveal the full story behind the creation of Jones Beach — the Long Island public park that helped establish Moses’ reputation.
The obstacles placed by Moses as Caro attempted to write the first biography of a man who for decades had blocked every previous attempt.
Excerpts from documentaries, interviews, and even TikTok videos that demonstrate the enduring appeal of the book, 50 years after its publication.

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Jeanne — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!