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2024-04-13 01:49:56

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Private research university in Massachusetts

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Private research university in Massachusetts

Established in 1861, MIT is known for its contributions to technology and science. The campus extends along the Charles River and includes various off-campus facilities. MIT has produced numerous Nobel laureates, Turing Award winners, and Fields Medalists, as well as recipients of National Medals of Science and Technology. The institute fosters an entrepreneurial culture and has strong affiliations with notable companies.

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1846

William Barton Rogers' Vision for MIT

In 1846, William Barton Rogers, MIT's first president, shared his vision for a new polytechnic institute in a letter to his brother Henry. He later campaigned vigorously to establish the Institute, garnering support and funding.

1859

Proposal for a museum and Conservatory of Art and Science in Back Bay, Boston

In 1859, a proposal was presented to the Massachusetts State Legislature for the use of newly opened lands in Back Bay, Boston, for a museum and Conservatory of Art and Science. This proposal eventually led to the incorporation of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

1860

MIT's Founding President William Barton Rogers Applies for Incorporation

In 1860, MIT's founding President William Barton Rogers and his allies requested an Act of Incorporation from the Massachusetts legislature to establish the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which would encompass a museum, a society of the arts, and a school of industrial science.

1861-04-10

Founding of MIT

MIT was officially founded on April 10, 1861, when it received its charter from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The institution started classes in 1865, just two days before the beginning of the Civil War.

1865

Founding of MIT

In 1865, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) was established, introducing a new model of independent educational institution tailored to the needs of an increasingly industrialized America.

1866

MIT's First Building in Back Bay

In 1866, MIT erected its first building in Boston's Back Bay, after occupying rented space on Summer Street in downtown Boston. The original building was located on Boylston Street.

1869

Recruitment of Charles W. Eliot to Harvard University

In 1869, MIT founding faculty member Charles W. Eliot was recruited to become the president of Harvard University, where he had a significant influence on American higher education and secondary education for 40 years.

1870

Ellen Swallow Richards admitted to MIT

Ellen Swallow Richards became the first female student at MIT in 1870, marking the beginning of nominal coeducation at the institution. She later became the first female member of MIT's faculty, specializing in sanitary chemistry.

1873

Ellen Henrietta Swallow graduates from MIT with a degree in chemistry

Ellen Henrietta Swallow graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1873 with a degree in chemistry. She later played a significant role in establishing the Women’s Laboratory and advocating for healthful living conditions through science.

1875

Runkle Impressed by Victor Della-Vos's Pedagogical Approach

At the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition of 1875, John Daniel Runkle was impressed by the work of Victor Della-Vos, who introduced a pedagogical approach combining manual and theoretical instruction at the Moscow Imperial Technical Academy. Runkle became an advocate of this approach and introduced it at MIT.

1876

Alexander Graham Bell demonstrated first telephone at MIT

In 1876, Alexander Graham Bell demonstrated the first telephone at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, showcasing a groundbreaking invention in communication technology.

1879

William Barton Rogers Returns as MIT President

In 1879, William Barton Rogers returned as MIT's president after financial challenges led to reduced faculty salaries and talk of closing the Institute. Rogers came back under the condition that he could resign upon the discovery of a successor and funds of $100,000 be raised.

1880-06

Offering Presidency to Francis Amasa Walker

In June 1880, Rogers wrote to Francis Amasa Walker to offer him the Presidency of MIT due to the lack of suitable alumni and scientific leaders with executive experience who shared the vision of the institute.

1881-05-25

Formal Election of Francis Amasa Walker as President

On May 25, 1881, Francis Amasa Walker was formally elected as the President of MIT by the Corporation, after accepting the offer earlier in May.

1881-11-05

Delayed Introduction of Francis Amasa Walker to MIT Faculty

Due to the assassination attempt on President Garfield and his subsequent illness, Francis Amasa Walker's formal introduction to the faculty of MIT was delayed until November 5, 1881.

1882-05-30

Death of Rogers during Walker's Commencement Speech

On May 30, 1882, during Walker's first Commencement exercises, Rogers died mid-speech with his last words being famously 'bituminous coal'.

1883

Construction of MIT Industrial Expansion Building

MIT's President, Walker, initiated the construction of a new building to address the cramped conditions of the original Boylston Street campus. The building was funded partially and aimed to enhance the Institute's facilities for industrial development.

1887

Massachusetts legislature grants $300,000 to MIT

Despite facing difficulties in raising capital for expansions, MIT's President Walker and Corporation members successfully lobbied the Massachusetts legislature for a $300,000 grant to aid in the industrial development of the Commonwealth.

1888

Robert Robinson Taylor integrates MIT

In 1888, Robert Robinson Taylor, the son of a freed slave, integrated MIT, becoming the first accredited black architect in America. He later played a significant role in the construction of schools.

1890

Introduction of Geology Program at MIT

MIT added the Geology program in 1890 to its academic offerings, reflecting the Institute's commitment to a comprehensive education in science and engineering. The Geology program provided students with a deeper understanding of the Earth's processes and resources.

1892

Construction of Another Building in Copley Square

In 1892, MIT began the construction of a new building in Copley Square to accommodate the growing programs and activities of the Institute. This expansion was part of MIT's efforts to enhance its infrastructure and academic offerings.

1893

Inception of Naval Architecture Program at MIT

MIT started the Naval Architecture program in 1893, expanding its engineering disciplines to include maritime design and construction. This program contributed to MIT's reputation as a leading institution in technological education.

1895

MIT's Curriculum in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering

In 1895, MIT established a curriculum in naval architecture and marine engineering, showcasing its commitment to diverse fields of study.

1903

Establishment of Department of Economics, Statistics, and Political Science

In 1903, a new Department of Economics, Statistics, and Political Science was established at MIT to replace Course IX on General Studies, which had been dissolved after Walker's death.

1905

New International Encyclopedia entry on Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The New International Encyclopedia included an entry on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1905, showcasing its importance and role in education.

1907

Split of Department of Economics, Statistics, and Political Science

In 1907, the Department of Economics, Statistics, and Political Science was split into a Department of Economics and Statistics and a Department of History of Political Science at MIT.

1909

President Maclaurin's Vision for a Diverse MIT

In 1909, President Maclaurin of MIT aimed to create a more diverse and inclusive institution by fostering understanding between countries. This initiative led to a significant increase in the proportion of international students at MIT.

1914

Beaver chosen as MIT's mascot

In 1914, at a dinner of the Technology Club of New York, MIT President Maclaurin was requested to adopt the beaver as MIT's formal mascot, which he did. The beaver was chosen for its engineering and mechanical skill, as well as habits of industry.

1915

MIT's first Nobel Prize awarded to Richard Willstätter

In 1915, chemist Richard Willstätter from MIT was awarded the university's first Nobel Prize for his research on plant pigments and organic compounds.

1916-06

MIT Moves to Cambridge

In June of 1916, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology relocated from Boston's Back Bay to Cambridge during a three-day alumni reunion. The dedication of the new campus was marked by an extravagant celebration, including a 'telephone banquet' and an elaborate pageant.

1917-07-23

Establishment of Navy's First Ground School for Pilot Training at MIT

Commander Jerome Clarke Hunsaker, with ties to MIT, advocated for the establishment of the Navy's first ground school for pilot training at MIT. The school provided comprehensive training in various aviation-related subjects.

1919-01-18

Last class graduated from MIT's naval aviation training program

On January 18, 1919, the last of 34 classes graduated from MIT's naval aviation training program, with a significant number of students successfully completing the rigorous training.

1920-01

MIT's New Campus Donation

In January 1920, the identity of the anonymous donor 'Mr. Smith' who made a substantial donation for MIT's move to Cambridge and the construction of its new campus was revealed to be George Eastman, the founder of Eastman Kodak.

1921

Collier's New Encyclopedia entry on Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology was featured in the Collier's New Encyclopedia in 1921, highlighting its significance and contributions.

1928

Alfred P. Sloan endows Sloan School of Management

Alfred P. Sloan, chairman of General Motors, endowed the Sloan School of Management for special research and education in management in 1928.

1929

Accreditation by New England Association of Schools and Colleges

MIT has been accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges since 1929.

1932

Division of Humanities established at MIT under Karl Taylor Compton

In 1932, Karl Taylor Compton reorganized MIT to incorporate a Division of Humanities, under which departments like Economics, Statistics, and Political Science were placed, reflecting a broader educational focus at the institute.

1934

MIT elected to the Association of American Universities

In 1934, MIT was elected to the prestigious Association of American Universities, solidifying its position as a leading research university.

1935

MIT's Curriculum in Nuclear Physics

MIT started offering a curriculum in nuclear physics in 1935, demonstrating its leadership in scientific research and education.

1938

MIT School of Architecture in Boston

The MIT School of Architecture remained in Boston's old 'Rogers Building' until 1938, before eventually moving to the main campus in Cambridge.

1941

MIT's Involvement in World War II

MIT played a significant role in military science during World War II. Vannevar Bush led the federal Office of Scientific Research and Development, directing funding to MIT. The Radiation Laboratory at MIT made crucial contributions to the war effort.

1942

MIT participates in the V-12 Navy College Training Program during World War II

During World War II, MIT was one of the 131 colleges and universities nationally that took part in the V-12 Navy College Training Program, offering students a path to a Navy commission and contributing to the war effort.

1945

Establishment of a new school of humanistic and social sciences at MIT

In 1945, a committee led by Professor Warren K. Lewis recommended the establishment of a new school of humanistic and social sciences at MIT. This initiative was a response to the horrors of World War II and aimed to nurture dynamic thinkers who would challenge conventional thought.

1946

Founding of American Research and Development Corporation

In 1946, American Research and Development Corporation, the first American venture-capital firm, was founded by MIT's President Compton, Harvard Business School professor Georges Doriot, and Massachusetts Investor Trust chairman Merrill Grisswold.

1947

Alvar Aalto's Baker House Completed

Baker House, designed by Alvar Aalto and completed in 1947, is a notable example of post-war modernist architecture at MIT. It is considered a high form of architectural design from that era.

1948

Establishment of MIT Industrial Liaison Program

In 1948, President Compton established the MIT Industrial Liaison Program to foster research collaborations between academia and industry.

1949

Mid-Century Convocation at MIT

In 1949, MIT hosted the 'Mid-Century Convocation,' a symposium to discuss the post-war world and the role of science and technology. Winston Churchill was a guest speaker at this event.

1950

Establishment of School of Humanities

The 1949 report of the Committee on Educational Survey recommended the establishment of a School of Humanities at MIT, leading to its establishment in 1950.

1951

First computer programming course taught at MIT by visiting professor Gordon Welchman

In 1951, visiting professor Gordon Welchman taught the first computer programming course at MIT, laying the foundation for future advancements in computer science education at the institute.

1954

Formation of MIT Department of Humanities

In 1954, the Department of Humanities was established at MIT through the merger of the English and history departments, consolidating academic resources.

1955

Eero Saarinen's MIT Chapel and Kresge Auditorium Completed

The MIT Chapel and Kresge Auditorium, designed by Eero Saarinen and completed in 1955, are significant examples of post-war modernist architecture at MIT. They represent innovative architectural designs of that time period.

1957

Establishment of MIT's Department of Nuclear Engineering and Center for International Studies

In 1957, MIT established the Department of Nuclear Engineering and the Center for International Studies in response to the intensifying Cold War and Space Race, reflecting the institute's commitment to cutting-edge research and global affairs.

1958

Approval of separate Ph.D. program in Political Science

In 1958, a separate Ph.D. program in Political Science was approved at MIT after political science classes and faculty had been subsumed or merged into other departments for several years.

1959

Foundation of Artificial Intelligence Lab

The Artificial Intelligence Lab was founded in 1959 by John McCarthy, Marvin Minsky, and others, and was instrumental in developing early artificial intelligence techniques.

1963

Foundation of Laboratory for Computer Science

The Laboratory for Computer Science (LCS), founded in 1963, was a leader in computer science research, developing early programming languages and operating systems.

1964

Completion of first women's dormitory, McCormick Hall

In 1964, the first women's dormitory, McCormick Hall, was completed at MIT, marking a significant change in the accommodation of female students.

1965

Formal establishment of separate departments in Economics and Political Science

In 1965, separate departments in Economics and Political Science were formally established at MIT.

1968

Establishment of Cross-Registration Program with Wellesley

In 1968, MIT and Wellesley initiated a cross-registration program, allowing students from both institutions to take courses at the partner university. This collaboration aimed to enhance academic opportunities and foster a closer relationship between the two schools.

1969-03-04

Foundation of Union of Concerned Scientists

The Union of Concerned Scientists was founded on March 4, 1969, during a meeting of faculty members and students at MIT, aiming to shift the focus of military research towards environmental and social issues.

1970

Paul Samuelson awarded Nobel Prize in Economics

In 1970, MIT alumni Paul Samuelson was honored with the Nobel Prize in Economics for his work in welfare economics theory and modern welfare economics development.

1971

Inception of Independent Activities Period (IAP)

The Independent Activities Period (IAP) was first offered at MIT in 1971, providing students with a month-long period for self-directed learning and exploration. This initiative aimed to supplement traditional academic programs with diverse and independent educational experiences.

1972

Foundation of Council for the Arts

In 1972, the Council for the Arts was established at MIT to promote artistic endeavors and cultural activities within the university community. This council aimed to support and showcase creative talents among students, faculty, and staff.

1973

MIT's Response to Vietnam War Protests

In response to student and faculty protests against the Vietnam War and defense research, MIT divested from the Instrumentation Laboratory and relocated all classified research off-campus to the Lincoln Laboratory facility in 1973.

1975

Introduction of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences requirement for undergraduate students

Since 1975, all MIT undergraduate students have been required to take eight classes distributed across the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences before receiving their degrees.

1976

MIT named a Sea-Grant College

In 1976, MIT was designated as a Sea-Grant College to support its programs in oceanography and marine sciences.

1977-04-28

Publication of 'Consumer Guide to MIT Men'

In 1977, two female students at MIT, Susan Gilbert and Roxanne Ritchie, were disciplined for publishing an article in the campus weekly newspaper. The article, titled 'Consumer Guide to MIT Men,' contained a sex survey of 36 men with full names and performance ratings, sparking controversy and leading to disciplinary action and protest.

1982

Autonomy for MIT Department of Humanities Sections

By 1982, the sections within the MIT Department of Humanities gained increased autonomy, with section chairs taking on more responsibilities in curriculum and budgetary matters.

1984

Dismissal of David F. Noble

In 1984, historian of technology David F. Noble was dismissed from MIT after criticizing the university's reliance on financial support from corporations and the military, sparking a debate on academic freedom of speech.

1985

Foundation of MIT Media Lab

The MIT Media Lab was founded in 1985 by Nicholas Negroponte and Jerome Wiesner to promote innovative research in computer technology, contributing to the advancement of the digital age.

1986

David Baltimore Research Misconduct Investigation

Professor David Baltimore, a Nobel Laureate, and his colleague, Thereza Imanishi-Kari were involved in a research misconduct investigation starting in 1986, leading to Congressional hearings in 1991. Baltimore eventually resigned from his position as president of Rockefeller University.

1987

Robert Solow receives Nobel Prize in Economics

Robert Solow, affiliated with MIT, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1987 for his research on economic growth and productivity.

1989

MIT named a Space-Grant College

In 1989, MIT was designated as a Space-Grant College to support its aeronautics and astronautics programs.

1990

Richard Stallman awarded Turing Award

Richard Stallman, recognized for his work on the GNU operating system and free software concept, received the Turing Award in 1990, a prestigious honor in the field of computing.

1991

Antitrust Suit Against MIT

In 1991, the Justice Department filed an antitrust suit against MIT, along with the Ivy League colleges and other institutions, for allegedly engaging in price-fixing during their annual 'Overlap Meetings'. MIT contested the charges and ultimately prevailed in 1994.

1994

Establishment of World Wide Web Consortium

The World Wide Web Consortium standards organization was founded at MIT in 1994 by Tim Berners-Lee, playing a crucial role in setting standards for the development of the World Wide Web.

1995

Mario Molina wins Nobel Prize in Chemistry

Mario Molina, associated with MIT, received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1995 for his contributions to understanding the chemistry of the ozone layer and global environmental issues.

1997

Probable Cause Finding by Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination

In 1997, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination supported James Jennings' allegations of tenure discrimination in MIT's Department of Urban Studies and Planning.

1998

MIT study on bias against female faculty

In 1998, a study at MIT concluded that there was a systemic bias against female faculty in its college of science, although the study's methods were controversial. This study highlighted the challenges faced by women in academia.

1999

Bill Gates donation for William H. Gates Building

In 1999, Bill Gates donated US$20 million to MIT for the construction of a computer laboratory named the 'William H. Gates Building', designed by architect Frank Gehry.

2000

MIT extends Writing Requirement to Communication Requirement

In 2000, MIT expanded its Writing Requirement to include a Communication Requirement, covering both spoken and written expression. This change aimed to enhance students' communication skills as part of their undergraduate education.

2001

Launch of MIT OpenCourseWare

In 2001, MIT launched OpenCourseWare, making course materials available online for free, inspired by the open source and open access movements.

2002

Launch of OpenCourseWare Project

The OpenCourseWare project was launched in 2002 at MIT, providing free online access to course materials from over 2,000 MIT classes, contributing to global education and knowledge sharing.

2003

Foundation of CSAIL

CSAIL (Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory) was founded in 2003 as a result of the merger of the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory and the Laboratory for Computer Science.

2004-12-06

Susan Hockfield becomes MIT's 16th president

Susan Hockfield, a molecular neurobiologist, made history by becoming MIT's first female president on December 6, 2004. Her appointment marked a significant milestone for gender diversity in leadership roles at the institution.

2005

Luk Van Parijs Dismissal Due to Scientific Misconduct

In 2005, Associate Professor Luk Van Parijs was dismissed following allegations of scientific misconduct and was found guilty by the United States Office of Research Integrity in 2009.

2006-02-10

Worlds within worlds

A concept or idea about different layers or dimensions.

2006-12-14

Let’s Take a Walk until orientation!

A suggestion or invitation to walk until a certain event or time.

2007-11-09

Do You Wanna Build A Snowman?

A person built their first snowman with the help of a friend.

2008-08-13

MIT Admissions Recruitment

On August 13, 2008, MIT Admissions started recruiting and enrolling a diverse group of talented undergraduates to utilize science, technology, and various scholarly fields to benefit the nation and the world in the 21st century.

2009-04

MIT Budget Cuts and Sports Elimination

In April 2009, MIT had to cut its budget which resulted in the elimination of eight sports programs, including mixed men's and women's teams in alpine skiing and pistol, separate teams for men and women in ice hockey and gymnastics, and men's programs in golf and wrestling.

2010

MIT Undergraduate Program Dubbed 'Most Selective'

In 2010, MIT's undergraduate program was dubbed 'most selective' by U.S. News, admitting few transfer students and 4.1% of its applicants in the 2020–2021 admissions cycle.

2011

MIT faculty and researchers disclose 632 inventions

In 2011, MIT faculty and researchers revealed a total of 632 inventions, showcasing the institution's dedication to innovation and discovery.

2012

Financial Aid and Scholarships at MIT

In 2012, 62 percent of MIT students received need-based financial aid in the form of scholarships and grants, averaging $38,964 per student. The total amount awarded in scholarships and grants was $102 million, with a significant portion coming from institutional support.

2013-04-18

MIT Police Officer Sean Collier Fatally Shot

Three days after the Boston Marathon bombings in April 2013, MIT Police patrol officer Sean Collier was fatally shot by the suspects, leading to a campus shutdown and a manhunt.

2013-11-25

Creation of the Collier Medal

On November 25, 2013, MIT announced the establishment of the Collier Medal to honor individuals or groups embodying the qualities exhibited by Officer Collier.

2014

MIT's achievements and affiliations

As of 2014, MIT has been associated with 81 Nobel laureates, 52 National Medal of Science recipients, 45 Rhodes Scholars, 38 MacArthur Fellows, and 2 Fields Medalists. It is often recognized as one of the world's top universities.

2015-01-25

Answering my own questions

A reflection on the MIT student mentality regarding hard work.

2016

Establishment of MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node

In 2016, MIT established the MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node to promote innovation and collaboration in Hong Kong.

2017-09

Launch of MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab

In September 2017, MIT unveiled the MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab, a research facility dedicated to artificial intelligence, with IBM committing $240 million over the next decade for its operation.

2018-10

Establishment of Schwarzman College of Computing

In October 2018, MIT announced the opening of the Schwarzman College of Computing, focusing on interdisciplinary AI education and applications in various fields, with an estimated cost of $1 billion for construction and faculty.

2019

MIT alumni have set foot on the Moon

As of 2019, four MIT alumni, including Buzz Aldrin, have set foot on the Moon, showcasing the institution's contributions to space exploration.

2020-03-10

Transition to Online Classes due to COVID-19

On March 10, 2020, MIT announced the transition of all classes online and instructed students to vacate dormitories as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2020-07-07

Seniors Allowed to Return to Campus

On July 7, 2020, MIT announced that seniors would be permitted to return to campus in September for in-person classes, with other students granted access to school facilities and housing on a case-by-case basis.

2021-01

Collaborative Lecture with Black Reconstruction Collective at MIT

In January 2021, Nicholas de Monchaux introduced a collaborative lecture with the Black Reconstruction Collective at MIT. During the lecture, it was emphasized that MIT acknowledges Indigenous people as the traditional stewards of the land, specifically recognizing the Wampanoag nation and addressing the history of genocide and forced occupation of their territory.

End of the Timeline
Massachusetts Institute of Technology