26 Facts About Harvard University

Harvard's History

Harvard University, established in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States. Its rich history is filled with fascinating facts that highlight its significance and influence.

1. Harvard was named after its first benefactor, John Harvard, a young minister who left his library and half his estate to the institution upon his death in 1638.
2. The university's motto, "Veritas," means "truth" in Latin. It was adopted in 1643 and reflects Harvard's commitment to knowledge and learning.
3. Harvard's original curriculum focused on training clergy, but it has since expanded to include a wide range of disciplines.
4. The first printing press in the American colonies was set up at Harvard in 1638, producing the first book, the "Bay Psalm Book," in 1640.
5. Harvard's library system is the largest academic library in the world, with over 20 million volumes.

Notable Alumni

Harvard has produced many influential figures across various fields, from politics to literature to science. Here are some notable alumni who have left their mark on the world.

6. Eight U.S. presidents, including John Adams, John Quincy Adams, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and John F. Kennedy, graduated from Harvard.
7. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates attended Harvard but dropped out to start his company, which became one of the most successful tech enterprises in history.
8. Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg also attended Harvard, where he launched the social media platform from his dorm room in 2004.
9. Nobel Prize-winning author and poet T.S. Eliot graduated from Harvard in 1910, contributing significantly to modernist literature.
10. Former First Lady Michelle Obama graduated from Harvard Law School in 1988, becoming a prominent lawyer, author, and advocate.

Campus and Traditions

Harvard's campus is steeped in tradition, with many unique customs and landmarks that reflect its storied past.

11. Harvard Yard, the historic center of the campus, is home to the iconic statue of John Harvard, often referred to as the "Statue of Three Lies" because of inaccuracies in its inscription.
12. The Harvard Crimson, the university's daily newspaper, was founded in 1873 and has been a training ground for many prominent journalists.
13. The annual Harvard-Yale football game, known as "The Game," is one of the oldest rivalries in college sports, dating back to 1875.
14. Harvard's Hasty Pudding Theatricals, founded in 1795, is the oldest collegiate theatrical organization in the United States, known for its comedic performances.
15. The Widener Library, named after Harry Elkins Widener, a Harvard alumnus who perished on the Titanic, is a central part of the university's library system.

Academic Excellence

Harvard is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and contributions to research and scholarship.

16. Harvard has produced 161 Nobel laureates, more than any other university in the world.
17. The university's faculty includes numerous Pulitzer Prize winners, MacArthur Fellows, and members of the National Academy of Sciences.
18. Harvard Business School, established in 1908, is one of the most prestigious business schools globally, known for its influential MBA program.
19. The Harvard Law Review, founded in 1887, is one of the most cited law journals in the United States, with many of its editors going on to prominent legal careers.
20. Harvard Medical School, established in 1782, has been at the forefront of medical research and education, producing many leading physicians and researchers.

Cultural Impact

Harvard's influence extends beyond academics, shaping culture and society in various ways.

21. The university's art museums, including the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house extensive collections of art from around the world.
22. Harvard's Arnold Arboretum, established in 1872, is a leading center for the study of plants and a beautiful public park in Boston.
23. The Harvard Film Archive, founded in 1979, preserves and showcases significant works of cinema, contributing to film scholarship and appreciation.
24. Harvard's Institute of Politics, established in 1966, aims to inspire students to pursue careers in public service and has hosted numerous prominent political figures.
25. The university's radio station, WHRB, founded in 1940, is known for its eclectic programming and has been a launching pad for many successful broadcasters.

Financial Aid and Accessibility

Harvard is committed to making education accessible to students from all backgrounds through generous financial aid programs.

26. Harvard's financial aid program ensures that all admitted students can afford to attend, with over 55% of undergraduates receiving need-based scholarships.

Harvard's Legacy in a Nutshell

Harvard University stands as a beacon of excellence and history. Founded in 1636, it's the oldest higher education institution in the U.S. Its alumni include eight U.S. presidents, 79 Nobel laureates, and countless influential figures. Harvard's library system, the largest academic library globally, boasts over 20 million volumes. The university's endowment, exceeding $40 billion, supports its vast research initiatives and scholarships. Harvard Yard, the historic heart of the campus, is a hub of student life and tradition. From its rigorous academic programs to its storied traditions, Harvard continues to shape leaders and innovators. Whether you're drawn to its rich history or its cutting-edge research, Harvard remains a symbol of academic prestige and opportunity. So, next time you think of higher education, remember Harvard's unparalleled impact on the world.