What's the oldest university in America?

Just curious about the history of American universities. Does anyone know which university holds the title of the oldest in the USA? Any interesting facts about its history?

The oldest university in the United States is Harvard University, which was established in 1636. It's named after John Harvard who, in 1638, left the university his 400-book library and half of his estate. Interesting tidbit: many mistakenly believe Harvard was named so upon founding, but the university was nameless during its first two years!

While Harvard was originally founded to educate clergy, it rapidly evolved to serve broader purposes. Over centuries, it's become renowned for its strong programs in areas such as law, business, and medicine, and has consistently ranked among the top universities globally. As of the 21st century, the university has over 2,400 faculty members and more than 20,000 students.

Its massive influence can be felt not only in the U.S. but also in the global community. Many consequential figures like U.S. presidents, Nobel laureates, and entrepreneurs have graduated from Harvard. Its motto "Veritas" (Latin for "Truth") reflects the university's commitment to discovery and knowledge. So, in many respects, Harvard's history is embedded in the broader history of American higher education and intellectual endeavor.