Origins & Early Life

Robert Moses (December 18, 1888 – July 29, 1981) was an American urban planner and public official who worked in the New York metropolitan area during the early to mid-20th century. Moses is regarded as one of the most powerful and influential people in the history of New York City and the state of New York. Moses' construction projects transformed the New York area and revolutionized the way urban areas across the United States were designed and built. His philosophy of urban development influenced a generation of engineers, architects, and urban planners across the United States.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Never elected to any office, Moses held myriad positions throughout his more-than-40-year career including New York City Parks Commissioner and chairman of the Long Island State Park Commission. At various points, Moses held as many as 12 titles simultaneously. Working closely with New York governor Al Smith early in his career, Moses became an expert in writing laws and influencing the operations of state government. As head of the Triborough Bridge Authority, Moses was instrumental in the construction of major transportation arteries including the Cross Bronx Expressway, the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Arthur M. Schlesinger Sr. — Contemporary (Born in 1888) (1888): Pioneering American historian known for social and urban history.
• Barghash bin Said of Zanzibar — Contemporary (Died in 1888) (1888): Second Sultan of Zanzibar, known for building Stone Town's infrastructure.
• Barry Fitzgerald — Contemporary (Born in 1888) (1888): Esteemed Irish actor known for his versatile stage and screen performances.
• Abigail Spencer — Contemporary (Born in 1981) (1981): American actress, producer, and writer known for roles in soap operas and dramas.
• Alicia Keys — Contemporary (Born in 1981) (1981): Award-winning pianist and vocalist known for her soulful R&B sound.
• Anwar Sadat — Contemporary (Died in 1981) (1981): Egyptian President who spearheaded economic reform and the peace treaty with Israel.
• Antonio Stradivari — Shared historical date (12-18 · Died) (1737): Master Italian luthier renowned for creating some of the finest string instruments.
• Arantxa Sánchez Vicario — Shared historical date (12-18 · Born) (1971): Spanish former tennis star, known for her defensive prowess in singles and doubles.
• Alexis de Tocqueville — Shared historical date (07-29 · Born) (1805): French philosopher known for analyzing Western democracy and social trends.
• Benito Mussolini — Shared historical date (07-29 · Born) (1883): Italian dictator who founded fascism and ruled the Kingdom of Italy from 1922 to 1943.
• 1888 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1888
• December 18 (12-18) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on December 18
• 1981 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1981
• July 29 (07-29) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on July 29