Headlines from Harvard history

An elephant race, and more from the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

Illustration by Mark Steele

1927

The debating team has won four of six matches during a spring-break tour of the Middle West, the editors note. In each debate, Harvard supported the affirmative side of the question: “Resolved, that the American College is a Failure.”

1952

“Korea—symbol of the undeclared war between East and West—continues to dominate the academic year 1951-52,” with the University “steering a course somewhere between total mobilization and business as usual”; 40 percent of the freshmen are enrolled in the army, navy, and air force ROTC programs.

1962

Joseph Russin ’64 guides the four-plus-ton Sonita to a sweepstakes trophy for Harvard at the first Intercollegiate Elephant Race at Orange Coun­ty State College in Fullerton, California.

1972

East Asian studies becomes Harvard’s newest concentration.…Mexican-American and Puerto Rican students schedule a conference to explore problems in implementing a Chicano-Boricua studies program at Harvard.

1997

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences adds a new quantitative reasoning course requirement to the Core Curriculum, replacing the former test-out option. 

Harvard’s first chair devoted exclusively to environmental issues is endowed by Gilbert Butler Jr. ’59 to honor the memory of his father.

More than 300 people gather in the Yard for the unveiling of a plaque on Matthews Hall commemorating Caleb Cheeshahteaumuck, A.B. 1665, and the other four initial Native American students at Harvard’s Indian College.

2002

Following a year of debate and data-gathering, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences makes it easier for undergraduates to study abroad, and more difficult for them to earn academic honors.

You might also like

Wadsworth House Nears 300

The building is a microcosm of Harvard’s history—and the history of the United States.

Highlights from Harvard’s Past

The rise of Cambridge cyclists, a lettuce boycott, and Julia Child’s cookbooks

In Sermon, Garber Urges Harvard Community to ‘Defend and Protect’ Institutions

Harvard’s president uses traditional Memorial Church address to encourage divergent views.

Most popular

What Trump Means for John Roberts's Legacy

Executive power is on the docket at the Supreme Court.

Rachel Ruysch’s Lush (Still) Life

Now on display at the Museum of Fine Arts, a Dutch painter’s art proved a treasure trove for scientists.

A Flu Vaccine That Actually Works

Next-gen vaccines delivered directly to the site of infection are far more effective than existing shots.

Explore More From Current Issue

Three book covers arranged in a row on a beige background with a red border.

Must-Read Harvard Books Winter 2025

From aphorisms to art heists to democracy’s necessary conditions 

A vibrant bar scene with tropical decor, featuring patrons sitting on high stools.

Best Bars for Seasonal Drinks and Snacks in Greater Boston

Gathering spots that warm and delight us  

A person walks across a street lined with historic buildings and a clock tower in the background.

Harvard In the News

A legal victory against Trump, hazing in the Harvard-Radcliffe Orchestra, and kicking off a Crimson football season with style