Harvard’s history

Daphne L|November 30, 2021

Harvard’s logo showcases their “Veritas” motto along with some books. – Photo by FIRE (Foundational for Individual Rights in Education)

Harvard is one of the most talked-about schools in the world. It’s a common example of a sophisticated and highly revered school.

Despite how much people talk about Harvard, most don’t know much about it. Harvard is an incredibly interesting subject with much to discover.

Harvard is the subject for many universities and TV shows. – Photo by TechGig

Harvard was founded on September 8^th, 1636 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It was founded by the Massachusetts General Court. Harvard was the first place for higher education in the new world. The first graduating class consisted of only nine men. For a few years, it was called “the college at New Towne” or “New College”. That is, until Puritan minister John Harvard left a lot of books and land for the college to use. Harvard’s name was adopted for the college.

This statue of John Harvard is one of the most often photographed statues in the country. – Photo by Harvard Gazette

In 1643, “Veritas”, which means “truth” in Latin, was chosen for Harvard’s motto. Seven years later it was changed to “In Christi Gloriam”, which means “For the glory of Christ” in Latin. Almost two hundred years later, it was finally changed back to “Veritas”, the motto that remains today.

“Veritas” is the caption of present-day Harvard University. – Photo by Wikimedia Commons

As of 2021, Harvard is 385 years old. It is tied for the honor of second place for the best universities in the world in 2022. An education at Harvard is like no other.

Harvard will undoubtedly remain a celebrated and prominent university for many years to come. As it approaches its four-hundred year anniversary, it is fascinating to learn more about the school so many strive to be a part of.