Harvard History & Traditions
Stories that explore the institution’s rich history, from archival moments to evolving traditions.
Wadsworth House Nears 300
The building is a microcosm of Harvard’s history—and the history of the United States.
by Primus VI
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.
Free Speech, the Bomb—and Donald Trump
A Harvard cardiologist on the unlikely alliances that shaped a global movement to prevent nuclear war
Highlights from Harvard’s Past
The Medical School goes coed, University poet wins Nobel Prize.
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
Snapshots of Harvard History | Summer 2025
Including profundity and pretzels
A Magna Carta at Harvard Law School
A rare original surfaces at Harvard at an “almost providential” moment.
A Harvard Love Story in Poetry
Young love: the poem, plus enduring lessons from a public-health pioneer
by Primus VI
Alice Hamilton at Harvard—Pioneer for Women in Medicine
Brief life of a public-health pioneer and reformer: 1869-1970
by Daniel Stone
Short Headlines from Harvard's History
Seniors’ uncertain future c. 1940, Harvard Law Review news, and more