Was Modern Art a CIA Psy-Op?

# Summary During the Cold War, the U.S. government, including the CIA and State Department, strategically promoted modern American art and exhibitions worldwide as propaganda to demonstrate the creativity and freedom of American society against Soviet oppression. Key figures like Nelson Rockefeller and Thomas W. Braden leveraged institutions like the Museum of Modern Art to advance American diplomatic interests, with Braden famously stating that American art achieved more for U.S. reputation than political speeches. This effort built on a foundation established during World War II when MoMA collaborated with the government on cultural initiatives in Latin America and beyond.