Harvard History & Traditions

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

Alan Garber speaking at a podium in Memorial Church, with wooden panels in the background.

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

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

by Jonathan Shaw

Photograph of David Evans

David L. Evans, Longtime Harvard Admissions Officer, Retires

David L. Evans made a difference for 50 years.

by Matteo Wong

Illustration imagining the evolution of computer science at Harvard in a playful way

Computer Science at Harvard in the 1960s and 1970s

The “yeasty” times” when computer research grew at Harvard

by Harry R. Lewis

A drawing of students rebelling in a dining hall.

The Much-Shrunken Class of 1823

The Class of 1823 goes rogue and gets booted.

by Jacob Sweet

Photograph of Café Pamplona, now out of business

Prognostications on Disease Defense, China, Deficits, and Sweat

Prognostications on disease defense, China, deficits, and sweat

by Primus VI

Re-Naming Harvard’S Lowell House?

The faculty deans prompt a discussion.

by John S. Rosenberg

How Harvard Handled the 1918 Flu Pandemic

Fall semester interrupted, a century ago

by Matteo Wong

Cartoon showing student pilots flying airplanes above Harvard's campus

Headlines From Harvard’S History

Headlines from Harvard’s history

Massachusetts Hall

Massachusetts Hall at 300

Harvard’s oldest building at 300

by John S. Rosenberg

Photograph of Martin Baron

Harvard Commencement 2020

Details of the virtual degree-conferral ceremonies

by John S. Rosenberg

Photograph of Nelson Mandela receiving honorary degree and University Marshal Rick Hunt

Dr. Fauci, Social Distance, and a Campus Without People

Campus and Commencement without people, social distance, Dr. Fauci, and a meaningful password

by Primus VI