NEW YORK (AP) – The esteemed historian Robert A. Caro has received a significant accolade as he has been named the first-ever Founders Historian Laureate by The New York Historical Society. This prestigious designation is meaningful for Caro, as his archives are housed within the institution, and a research room bears his name. Caro, who is 89 years old and has spent much of his life in New York, is celebrated for his in-depth writings, including the acclaimed biography of municipal builder Robert Moses, titled The Power Broker. This work was recently the focus of an exhibit at the museum.
Caro is also renowned for his multi-volume biographies of President Lyndon B. Johnson and is currently in the process of completing the fifth and final volume of this series. As of now, no official release date has been announced for this concluding work.
The formal recognition will take place at a gala scheduled for September 17, during which The New York Historical Society will also present a History Makers Award to Gustavo Dudamel. Dudamel, a Grammy-winning conductor, is set to become the musical and artistic director of the New York Philharmonic in the year ahead, having previously led the Los Angeles Philharmonic since 2009.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang, the board chair of The New York Historical Society, expressed the institution's pride in honoring Caro. She noted, "We feel deeply privileged to name Robert A. Caro our Founders Historian Laureate—a singular distinction in our 221 years of institutional history—for his luminous writing." Hsu-Tang further elaborated on the significance of the awards, highlighting Caro’s notable contributions in documenting the lives and influences of Robert Moses and Lyndon B. Johnson, as well as Dudamel’s extraordinary artistry and commitment to leveraging music as a force for social change.
The distinction bestowed upon Caro is a unique honor that marks a milestone in the institution's lengthy history, celebrating the profound impact that both individuals have made in their respective fields. Caro’s meticulous research and commanding narrative style have earned him immense respect in the literary and historical communities, while Dudamel's innovative leadership in the world of music continues to inspire audiences around the globe.
The collaborative celebration at the upcoming gala will underscore the bridge between history and the arts, showcasing how both Caro and Dudamel exemplify the truth of the human experience through their work. This event not only honors their achievements but also signifies the continuing importance of storytelling and artistry in contemporary society.
