74 pages 2 hours read

Robert A. Caro

The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1974

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York by Robert A. Caro charts the ascent and subsequent decline of urban planner Robert Moses, detailing his transformation of New York City through ambitious public works projects, his accumulation of vast political power, and his eventual fall from grace due to public and political opposition, revealing the complex interplay of idealism and power in urban development. The book includes discussions of racial discrimination and socio-economic inequalities.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Robert A. Caro's The Power Broker is widely acclaimed for its meticulous research and insightful exploration of political power, particularly through the life of urban planner Robert Moses. While praised for its narrative depth and extensive detail, some readers find the length intimidating and certain sections overly dense. Overall, it remains a seminal work in biographical and urban studies literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Power Broker?

Readers who enjoy detailed political biographies, urban planning, and in-depth analyses of power dynamics will find The Power Broker by Robert A. Caro compelling. Comparable to Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin and Master of the Senate by Caro himself, this book appeals to those captivated by the intricate machinations of influential figures.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

History: U.S.

Urban Development

Business / Economics

Themes

Identity: Race

Society: Politics & Government

Values/Ideas: Power & Greed

Genre

Biography