In this volume Professor Morison describes the background and founding of Harvard College and its history before the granting of the Charter of 1650. The story of Harvard has never before been told in such detail, and it is difficult even to suggest in this brief paragraph the wealth of historical information here laid before the reader. A glance at mediaeval universities, a description of the University of Cambridge in the half century before Harvard was founded, the exact circumstances and motives of founding Harvard, the inspiring story of John Harvard’s brief life in America, the sad but amusing tale of Nathaniel Eatoh, first head of Harvard College, the eventful first ten years of Henry Dunster’s presidency—these are only a few of the chief topics discussed. The volume is lavishly illustrated with portraits, prints, facsimiles, plans, maps, and coats of arms.