Harvard History & Traditions

Stories that explore the institution’s rich history, from archival moments to evolving traditions.

A Look at Harvard’s Distinctive Doctoral Regalia

On regalia, a Jack-of-all-trades retirement, and a Bok’s office bon mot.

by Primus VI

McNamara on campus, the “Cambridge conceit,” and Bob Dylan

McNamara on campus, the “Cambridge conceit,” and a lyric puzzle

by Primus VI

Harvard fall semester schedule

Harvard bestirs itself for the fall term.

by John S. Rosenberg

Remembering a distinctive Harvard Magazine voice

A distinctive Harvard Magazine voice remembered

Headlines from Harvard history

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

Harvard alumnus recalls World War II

A member of the class of 1946 on the horrors, and humor, of World War II.

by Primus VI

Drew Faust before Harvard presidency

When The Chronicle of Higher Education highlighted Drew Faust in her pre-Harvard days

Headlines from Harvard history

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

Brief life of mathematician Nathaniel Bowditch

Brief life of a mathematician and businessman: 1773-1839

by Tamara Plakins ...

Blair Kamin organizes a colorful new guide to the "Gates of Harvard Yard"

A nitty-gritty guide by a Nieman Fellow and his team.