Harvard College

Definition

Harvard College is the undergraduate liberal arts college of Harvard University, founded in 1636. It played a pivotal role in the development of higher education in colonial America, representing the first institution of higher learning established in the New World, and setting a precedent for other colonial colleges that followed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Harvard College was originally established as a training ground for clergy and was influenced heavily by Puritan ideals, aiming to promote moral character and intellectual rigor.
2. The college was named after John Harvard, a young minister who bequeathed his library and half of his estate to the institution after his death in 1638.
3. Harvard College's early curriculum emphasized classical studies, including Latin, Greek, rhetoric, and theology, reflecting the educational trends of its time.
4. In the 18th century, Harvard began to adapt its curriculum to include more secular subjects and practical knowledge, responding to the changing needs of colonial society.
5. Harvard College served as a model for other colonial colleges that were founded later, such as Yale and Princeton, influencing higher education throughout America.

Review Questions

• How did Harvard College reflect the cultural and educational values of colonial America?
  • Harvard College was a direct reflection of the Puritan values prevalent in colonial America, emphasizing the importance of moral character and religious education. Its foundation aimed to train clergy who would uphold these values within the community. The curriculum initially focused on classical studies to promote rigorous intellectual development while integrating practical knowledge over time to better serve the evolving societal needs.
• What impact did Harvard College have on the establishment of subsequent colonial colleges in America?
  • Harvard College's establishment set a significant precedent for other colonial colleges by demonstrating the value of higher education in shaping leadership and moral integrity in society. Following Harvard's model, institutions like Yale and Princeton were founded with similar objectives—providing an educated clergy and promoting civic responsibility. This trend contributed to the expansion of higher education across the colonies, shaping America's educational landscape.
• Evaluate the transformation of Harvard College's curriculum from its founding through the 18th century and how this reflects broader educational trends.
  • Harvard College underwent a significant transformation from its founding in 1636 to the 18th century, evolving from a focus on religious training for clergy to a more diverse curriculum that included secular subjects. This shift reflects broader educational trends that prioritized practical knowledge alongside classical studies as American society grew more complex and secular. As the needs of colonial society changed, so did Harvard’s approach to education, ultimately influencing other institutions and contributing to a more comprehensive liberal arts education model.

Related terms

Colonial Colleges: These were institutions of higher education founded in America during the colonial period, primarily aimed at training clergy and educated citizens.

Puritanism: A religious reform movement that arose within the Church of England, emphasizing strict moral conduct and the importance of education for understanding scripture.

Liberal Arts Education: An educational approach focused on broad knowledge and critical thinking skills across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, and social sciences.