While higher education often follows secondary education, the concept of university is surprisingly young. The first institution arose in the 17th century, catering specifically to students pursuing religious vocations. Over time, however, the scope of these institutions broadened considerably. This list explores the Top 10 oldest universities in the United States.

Harvard University

Founded in 1636, Harvard stands as the first official college in the U.S., boasting both prestige and popularity. John Havard’s generous gift of money and books cemented its early legacy.

The College of William & Mary

Home to America’s second-oldest college, Williamsburg, Virginia holds a treasure trove of history within its walls. Founded in 1693, the college proudly traces its lineage back to even earlier plans laid in 1618.

St. John’s College

Steeped in history, St. John’s College traces its roots back to 1696, when it first opened its doors as a prep school in Annapolis, Maryland. A century later, it embarked on a new chapter as a full-fledged college.

Yale University

Nestled in the charming New England town of New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University stands as a beacon of academic excellence, its impressive lineage stretching back to 1701. As one of the oldest and most selective universities in the United States, Yale has attracted brilliant minds and pioneering spirits for centuries, shaping countless leaders and innovators across diverse fields.

University of Pennsylvania

In the heart of colonial America, a young university dreamt of providing education to all. Founded in 1740 as a charity school by a passionate evangelist, the fledgling institution faced a stark reality: empty coffers. Yet, a decade later, a guiding hand reached out. Benjamin Franklin, a champion of knowledge and progress, stepped in, securing funding and transforming the school into the Academy and Charitable School in the Province of Pennsylvania. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a remarkable ascent, laying the foundation for the university’s future as a cornerstone of American education.

Moravian College

Imagine a 16-year-old girl, Benigna von Zinzendorf, with a dream as vast as the American colonies themselves. In 1742, her vision bloomed into reality – the first boarding school for young women in the colonies, nestled in the charming town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This wasn’t just any school; it was Moravian College, a pioneer in female education.

But Benigna’s ambition didn’t stop there. The same year, she founded a separate school for boys, fueled by the belief that knowledge should be accessible to all. Several years later, she took a revolutionary step, merging the two schools into one, creating a truly inclusive institution.

University of Delaware

In the idyllic countryside of New London, Pennsylvania, a seed of education was planted in 1743. Reverend Dr. Francis Alison, captivated by a petition calling for an educated clergy, embarked on a remarkable journey. He founded a school dedicated to nurturing minds and fostering faith, laying the foundation for what would become the University of Delaware.

Alison’s school resonated with the community, attracting bright minds eager to delve into the realms of knowledge. Students learned not just Latin and Greek, but also the values of critical thinking, leadership, and service. This focus on both academic rigor and character development resonated deeply, propelling the school’s influence and growth.

By 1765, the vibrant intellectual buzz of Alison’s school echoed beyond the borders of New London. To accommodate its thriving student body and ambitious vision, the institution relocated to Newark, Delaware. It was a pivotal moment, marking the birth of Newark College, the predecessor to the esteemed University of Delaware we know today.

Princeton University

Princeton University, another beacon of academic excellence in the U.S., boasts a history deeply entwined with the birth of our nation. Established in 1746 as the College of New Jersey, it predates even the Declaration of Independence!

Washington and Lee University

Washington and Lee University isn’t just a place of learning; it’s a living, breathing testament to American history. Its roots stretch back to 1749, making it one of the nation’s oldest universities and a cherished landmark in Lexington, Virginia.

Columbia University

Imagine stepping back in time to 1754, to a bustling New York City under British rule. This was the year a crown jewel was placed in the city’s cultural landscape: King’s College.

King’s College was more than just a place of learning – it was a symbol of British authority and ambition. Its halls echoed with Latin lessons and discussions on Enlightenment principles, shaping the minds of future leaders like Alexander Hamilton and John Jay.

More: How to Pay for College Using Overlooked Strategies

In an endeavor to gaze into the intricate tapestry of six decades adorned with historical narratives and mythos, we aim to present a comprehensive understanding of President John F. Kennedy and postulate potential scenarios had he survived.

Beyond the Loss of Innocence

This narrative eschews the well-worn cliché of our collective innocence supposedly lost on November 22, 1963, the day Kennedy fell victim to assassination. (Did not the quiz show scandals of the late 1950s already debunk that notion?) Nor does it delve into the worn-out inquiry of “Who killed JFK?”

Navigating the Unknown

Certain aspects of this chronicle are grounded in certainties, while others dwell in the realm of probabilities, shaped by the best evidence at our disposal. It hints at an alternate trajectory that nearly unfolded—a deviation in the Cold War stance, a reevaluation of Vietnam and the tumultuous ’60s, and a nuanced exploration of Kennedy’s personal life and political destiny. The survival of JFK would not only have rewritten the annals of American history but also reshaped perceptions of the 35th president and his enduring legacy.

A Step Towards Peace

A spirit of optimism pervaded the atmosphere, particularly after the tension-fraught yet peacefully resolved Cuban Missile Crisis. Kennedy, once a staunch defense hawk, had, in June 1963, advocated for a reevaluation of the nation’s stance toward the Soviet Union. Subsequently, a limited nuclear test ban agreement was reached between Washington and Moscow, garnering over two-thirds Senate approval. “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” mused JFK, quoting a Chinese proverb—a noteworthy stride for a generation habituated to nuclear attack drills during their school days.

The Golden Age of 1963

The economic landscape of 1963 showcased a golden age for the United States. Fifteen years put up-World War II, the state stood because the lone financial superpower. The records painted an enviable photograph: Unemployment hovered at 5 percent and reducing; inflation maintained a modest 1.2 percentage charge; actual economic growth stood at 4.4 percent, with a projected budget surplus of $500 million. The pivotal debate revolved around enacting Kennedy’s proposed tax cut to stimulate further economic growth, staunchly opposed by Republicans as a reckless fiscal move.

Kennedy’s Reelection Conundrum

Contrary to the posthumous icon status, Kennedy faced a formidable reelection challenge despite a flourishing economy and easing global tensions. Racial issues loomed large, with a Gallup Poll in September 1963 revealing Barry Goldwater leading JFK by a 59-41 margin in the former Confederate states. Civil rights efforts faced resistance, triggering a surge in violent crime rates and struggles over de facto segregated schools in cities like New York and Boston. Kennedy’s vision to unite rural whites and urban blacks against poverty clashed with advisers advocating a focus on law enforcement and suburban appeal.

A Potential Game-Changer

Amidst these challenges, the specter of peace emerged as a potential game-changer. References to the nuclear test ban treaty garnered massive applause during Kennedy’s speeches, poised to be a central theme in the 1964 campaign, especially if the Republicans nominated the bellicose Barry Goldwater.

JFK and Vietnam

Kennedy’s approach to Vietnam, a contentious topic during his candidacy, would likely not have escalated under his presidency. Despite earlier endorsements of aggressive tactics, his skepticism about Western intervention in Vietnam was long-standing. His presidency manifested a reluctance to engage militarily in Laos, restraint during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and resistance to military chiefs advocating aggressive measures in Vietnam.

A Potential Shift in Atmosphere

The hypothetical landscape of the 1960s, devoid of Kennedy’s assassination, might have been less tumultuous. The civil rights movement and the emergence of a radical Black constituency, along with the counterculture, were influenced by forces independent of the Oval Office occupant. Nevertheless, the absence of Vietnam escalation could have shaped a different atmosphere. For instance, the Students for a Democratic Society, initially a reformist movement, might not have undergone the radical transformation into factions like Maoists and Weathermen.

A Soft Landing for the Left

Prominent leaders from that era, including Todd Gitlin and Tom Hayden, suggest that Kennedy’s survival could have provided a softer landing for the left, avoiding the bitterness that characterized subsequent years.

The Aftermath of Assassination

The aftermath of Kennedy’s assassination not only catalyzed the radicalization of the New Left but also spawned enduring conspiracy theories, fostering cynicism and distrust. The belief in shadowy forces within the government orchestrating Kennedy’s demise adds a layer of malevolence to perceptions of leadership.

JFK’s Personal and Political Future

Turning our attention to JFK’s personal and political future, speculation arises regarding the media’s coverage of his indiscretions. The prevalent notion that the media shielded Kennedy’s reckless philandering is not entirely accurate. In the months leading to his demise, the press began scrutinizing the president’s behavior.

Potential Scandals: The Unraveling Web

Scandals involving a British prostitute linked to a high-ranking American official and Senate aides supplying “party girls” to officials surfaced. The potential for disaster extended beyond a few reporters; FBI Chief J. Edgar Hoover relished the opportunity to inform Bobby Kennedy about the president’s liaisons. Simultaneously, this information served as ammunition for JFK’s adversaries. Hoover might have contemplated leaking the information if the 1964 election became closely contested.

Containing Rumors

The Kennedys, equipped with the power of their office, could have contained the rumors in the absence of social media and modern-day exposés. The lack of a Drudge Report and similar platforms meant traditional press outlets were the primary conduits for information, susceptible to intimidation through tools like tax audits and bureaucratic harassment.

Kennedy’s Uncertain Destiny

Ultimately, the conjecture about Kennedy’s fate, had he survived, remains shrouded in uncertainty. Various individuals possessed the knowledge, means, desire, and opportunity to alter Kennedy’s political trajectory, leaving an indelible mark on his place in history.

More: Osama bin Laden, 9/11 and the Virality of ‘Letter to America’ on TikTok