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
Headlines from Harvard history
From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine
A Harvard presidential portrait rediscovered, and an art gallery of a cemetery
A president who tippled, and an eternally faithful dog
Harvard acknowledges slave connections
A plaque begins an official acknowledgment of the University’s past.
Harvard Asian-American leadership
A coincidence of leadership at Harvard, at a contested moment
Peter J. Gomes portrait installed at Harvard
Harvard installs a portrait of the late Reverend Peter J. Gomes.
Headlines from Harvard history
From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine
J.Q. Adams on patronage and rhetoric, and Daniel Merton Wegner on cats
J.Q. Adams on patronage and rhetoric, Daniel Merton Wegner on cats
Harvard's eugenics era
When academics embraced scientific racism, immigration restrictions, and the suppression of “the unfit”
Henry Rosovsky: a tribute from Harvard Magazine
A tribute to Henry Rosovsky from Harvard Magazine
Headlines from Harvard history
From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine