Join celebrated biographer Robert Caro, known for his in-depth books on Robert Moses and Lyndon B. Johnson, as he shares his journey into the lives of these historical giants. He talks about the art of narrative in biographies, uncovering election scandals and the challenges of research before the digital age. The conversation blends humor and politics as they reflect on the absurdities of governance throughout history and explore connections between past and present. Plus, a quirky take on skull sizes and intelligence adds a playful twist to the discussion!
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Robert Moses' Impact
Robert Moses built New York City's major infrastructure, including 627 miles of expressways.
He shaped the city without ever being elected to office.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Moving to Texas
To understand Lyndon Johnson, Robert Caro moved to Texas Hill Country.
Ina Caro initially suggested Napoleon but agreed to the move.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Hill Country Poverty
Caro learned about the poverty in the Hill Country where Johnson grew up.
There was no cash, and people had to travel long distances to sell goods like eggs.
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This book retraces Lyndon Johnson's early life, from his childhood in the impoverished Texas Hill Country to his early years in Washington, D.C., first as a congressional aide and then as a congressman. It explores Johnson's relentless ambition, his ability to mesmerize and manipulate powerful figures, and his complex relationships with family, contemporaries, and influential politicians like Sam Rayburn and FDR. The book also delves into Johnson's secret love affairs and his strategic cultivation of wealthy and powerful allies. Caro's exhaustive research and immersive writing style provide a vivid portrait of Johnson's formative years and the environment that shaped his political career.
The Power Broker
Robert Moses and the Fall of New York
Robert Caro
This book is a monumental biography of Robert Moses, who was the single most powerful man in New York City and State during his time. It explores how Moses accumulated and wielded power, shaping the city through his public works projects, including highways, bridges, and parks. The book delves into Moses's early life, his idealistic beginnings, and his transformation into a powerful figure who dominated New York's politics without ever being elected. It also highlights the social and environmental impacts of his projects and his eventual fall from power. The biography is renowned for its detailed and nuanced portrayal of power dynamics in urban politics[2][4][5].
Author Robert Caro is cautiously optimistic about being Conan O Brien’s friend.
Robert and Conan discuss his biographical works on Robert Moses and Lyndon Johnson, getting into the shoes of his subjects, his new book “Working,” searching for the man who helped steal a Senate election, and the parallels we can draw to today’s events. Plus, Conan responds to a listener voicemail about the size of his skull.
Got a question for Conan? Call our voicemail: (323) 451-2821.
This episode is sponsored by VRBO, Twix, State Farm (1-800-STATE-FARM), Huly's Ramy, and Fracture (www.fractureme.com/CONAN).
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Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend 
