Robert Caro, an influential historian renowned for his meticulous explorations of power and politics, discusses his landmark work 'The Power Broker.' He reveals how urban planner Robert Moses transformed New York while also ruining communities along the way. Caro shares his intensive research process and the power struggles between Moses and Mayor LaGuardia. He reflects on the duality of historical figures like Moses and Lyndon Johnson, emphasizing the complexities of their legacies and the importance of informed political engagement.
Robert Caro's meticulous research transforms historical narratives into engaging experiences, making the past relatable and vivid for readers.
Caro emphasizes the importance of understanding political power to foster an informed electorate and enhance the democratic process.
Deep dives
The Art of Historical Immersion
Immersing oneself in history is essential for a profound understanding of the past. This involves engaging with primary documents, archives, and other materials to bring history to life as if experiencing it in real-time. The discussion highlights Robert Caro's exceptional talent for making historical narratives vivid and relatable. By doing so, he transforms the task of historical writing into an engaging experience, similar to attending a concert by a rock star.
Caro's Methodology and Discoveries
Caro's approach to research includes a meticulous examination of documents, leading to groundbreaking discoveries. A noteworthy moment occurred when he uncovered a crucial letter from Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia to Robert Moses, revealing the subtle mechanisms of power that Moses exploited. This revelation became a pivotal part of Caro's narrative in 'The Power Broker,' showcasing how mundane legislation can conceal significant authority. As Caro pieced together these elements, he gained the confidence to articulate the intricate dynamics of political power.
The Importance of Understanding Political Power
Caro emphasizes the necessity of understanding political power to enhance the democratic process. He believes that a well-informed electorate is crucial for democracy to function effectively and that his books serve to illuminate the true workings of power. This responsibility drives Caro to ensure his writing is thorough and impactful, even as he confronts modern skepticism towards lengthy texts. By shedding light on the historical intricacies of figures like Lyndon Johnson and Robert Moses, Caro aims to provide readers with the tools necessary to make informed voting decisions.
Historian Robert Caro's book "The Power Broker" details how urban planner Robert Moses reshaped New York through the roads and bridges he built, and the lives of the communities he destroyed.
It's a definitive account of how power is acquired, how it works and how it's wielded in this country.
That book, along with his four books on President Lyndon Johnson, have made Caro one of the most significant American authors of the last half century.
For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.