99% Invisible The Power Broker #8: Shiloh Frederick
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Aug 16, 2024 
Shiloh Frederick, a passionate writer and influencer known for her viral love for New York City's history, joins the conversation. She shares her journey of reading 'The Power Broker' in 30 days, detailing the challenges and insights gained along the way. The discussion dives into the profound impact of Robert Moses on urban planning, showcasing his controversial legacy and the manipulative power dynamics he wielded. They also touch on the fragile balance of democracy and the lessons learned from NYC’s architectural evolution.
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Moses as Power Broker
- Moses used his control over funds to influence power dynamics in New York.
- He awarded jobs and contracts strategically to ensure loyalty and compliance.
Screvane's Warning
- Paul Screvane warned against accepting favors from Moses.
- Moses would leverage those favors for control, holding compromising information.
Weakened Board of Estimate
- The Board of Estimate, intended to check Moses's power, was weakened.
- Reformers inadvertently reduced the board's authority by centralizing city agencies.
