Robert F. Wagner II was a three-term mayor of New York City (1954-1965) known for his reformist policies. He broke ties with the Tammany Hall political machine in 1961, championing progressive causes such as public housing, racial equality in hiring, and the right of city workers to unionize. His tenure saw the creation of the City University of New York and Lincoln Center. Wagner also served as the U.S. Ambassador to Spain. He was instrumental in the city's preservation efforts, despite some controversial demolition projects during his time.
