ADB Through the Decades

The 5-volume publication ADB through the Decades provides a historical account of how ADB has evolved to respond to the dynamic changes across the Asia and Pacific region over the past 5 decades. This first volume from the series explains how the idea of a regional development bank for Asia emerged and gained support and how ADB established itself as a sound and credible institution. When ADB was established in 1966 the Asia and Pacific region was undergoing a process of deep change. Several countries gained independence and a sense of regional identity was emerging. The region was defined by poverty and feeding people remained a primary concern even while the Green Revolution was under way. The first oil crisis in 1973 tested many Asian economies. This volume explains the beginnings of a regional development bank for Asia. During its formative years ADB dealt with administrative organizational and funding issues to establish itself as a sound and credible institution. ADB's first President Takeshi Watanabe envisioned ADB's role as Asia's family doctor. The Bank conducted several studies to have a fuller understanding of the region before lending on energy transport agriculture and finance gained momentum during the latter half of the first decade.