On October 22, 1746, the College of New Jersey, later renamed Princeton University, was founded. The college initially trained ministers in the Presbyterian tradition. It moved to Princeton, New Jersey, several years later and expanded its curriculum. Over time, Princeton became one of the country’s leading universities with strong programs in the humanities, sciences, and public policy. Many U.S. presidents, Supreme Court justices, and other public figures studied there. Its founding highlights the role of colonial colleges in shaping American leadership and intellectual life.
