John Harvard

John Harvard (November 26, 1607 – September 14, 1638) was an English minister and philanthropist who is best known for his bequest that led to the founding of Harvard University, one of the leading institutions of higher education in the United States. Despite his brief life, Harvard's legacy has endured through the centuries, largely due to his significant contribution to the establishment of the university that bears his name.

Early Life

John Harvard was born in Southwark, London, England, into a family of modest means. His father, Robert Harvard, was a butcher and tavern owner. John Harvard was educated at the St Saviour's Grammar School, where he showed early promise as a scholar. After the death of his father and several siblings due to the plague, Harvard inherited a considerable sum of money, which allowed him to attend Emmanuel College, Cambridge, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1632 and a master's degree in 1635.

Emigration to America

In 1637, seeking religious freedom and better opportunities, Harvard emigrated to the New England colonies in America with his wife, Ann Sadler. They settled in Charlestown, Massachusetts, where Harvard became a teaching elder in the local church.

Legacy and Contribution to Harvard University

John Harvard's life in America was short-lived, as he died of tuberculosis in 1638 at the age of 30. In his will, he bequeathed half of his monetary estate and his entire library of over 400 volumes to the new educational institution established in 1636 by the Massachusetts Bay Colony. This institution, initially called "New College," was subsequently renamed Harvard College in his honor.

Impact and Memorialization

John Harvard's contribution significantly impacted the development and success of Harvard University. His bequest was instrumental in the early development of the college, providing it with financial stability and a valuable library that laid the foundation for its future growth.

A statue of John Harvard, known as the "Statue of Three Lies," stands in Harvard Yard and is a popular tourist attraction. The statue is inscribed with inaccuracies, famously claiming that John Harvard was the founder of the college established in 1638, neither of which is true.

Death and Burial

John Harvard died on September 14, 1638, and was buried in Charlestown's Phipps Street Cemetery. His grave remains a site of interest for those who visit to pay homage to his contributions to one of America's oldest universities.

See Also

• History of Harvard University
• Colonial Colleges
• Education in the United States

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