Harvard History & Traditions

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

Tips of the Hat(s)

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

by Primus VI

Yesterday’s News

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

Jimmy Carter and James Agee ’32

Why this “sovereign prince of the English language” touched the president’s heart

by Lincoln Caplan

Western Civ.

An archaeologist/curator/hands-on humanist, and an artifact from the era of typewritten term papers

by Primus VI

Barbara Lawrence

Brief life of an intrepid mammalogist: 1909-1997

by Jonathan Shaw

Yesterday’s News

From the pages of the Harvard Alumni Bulletin and Harvard Magazine

President Garber’s Quiet Installation

A private ceremony celebrated Garber’s appointment as president.

by Jonathan Shaw

“Find Yourself a Teacher…”

President Garber’s Morning Prayers

by John S. Rosenberg

Convocation 2024: The New Crew Redux

Welcoming the class of 2028 to a challenged Harvard

by John S. Rosenberg

Widsom of the Aged

Alumni perspectives on Harvard in crisis, and signs of a changed community

by Primus VI

“Volts of Your Own Spirit”

Seamus Heaney writes to Helen Vendler.