What are the oldest colleges in the United States?

I'm interested in applying to some of the oldest colleges in the US because I love history and tradition. Can anyone give me a list of which schools are the oldest and maybe a bit about their history?

Sure, I'd be happy to list down some of the oldest colleges in the U.S. for you!

1. Harvard University - Founded in 1636, Harvard is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts and it's the oldest higher education institution in the U.S. Its rich history includes many notable alumni, from U.S. Presidents to Nobel laureates.

2. The College of William & Mary - Established in 1693, it's located in Williamsburg, Virginia. It was named after King William III and Queen Mary II of England. William & Mary is known for its close ties with the colonial history of America.

3. Yale University - Yale was founded in 1701 and is located in New Haven, Connecticut. Originally named 'Collegiate School', it was renamed Yale in honor of Welsh merchant Elihu Yale. Yale is particularly famous for multiple reasons including its law and medical schools.

4. Princeton University - Established in 1746, Princeton is situated in Princeton, New Jersey. It was initially named 'College of New Jersey' and changed its name to Princeton in 1896. Princeton is well known for its strong focus on undergraduate education.

5. Columbia University - Founded in 1754 in New York City, Columbia was originally named 'King's College'. Over its long history, Columbia has been associated with numerous Nobel laureates and Fields medalists.

Each of these universities has numerous traditions and a rich history that could cater to your interest in history and tradition. Remember though, it's also vital to consider other factors such as your intended major, financial aid, location preferences, and so on when selecting a college to apply to.