Decade: 1950s

Asia Society’s first public exhibition in 1960, “Masterpieces of Asian Art in American Collections,” launched decades of exhibitions aimed at bringing Asian arts and cultures to American audiences. Photos show the broad range of diverse media and geographical areas represented in the exhibition.

In nearly a century of activity in the field of economics, the Foundation initiated new research centers and training programs around the world.

Supporting American writers and the journals that publish their work.

A new program in the natural sciences increased funding and attention to the life sciences, and coined a new term along the way.

A new organization played an important part in assisting the Rockefeller Foundation by assembling cooperative studies on the issues of the day.

Partnering with public agencies to encourage efficient administration in state, county, and local governments.

Encouraging cross-cultural knowledge in an interconnected postwar world by shaping new interdisciplinary programs and retooling traditional academic fields.

The Rockefeller Foundation evolved to bring the arts and humanities together, from classical archaeology to contemporary museums.

Although known for its work in science, medicine, and health, the Rockefeller Foundation supported a surprising number of performing arts activities.

At midcentury, Rockefeller Foundation staffers hoped new technologies might find solutions to complex problems.