VIDEO
HIGHLIGHT
Log InSign up
The University of Cambridge - A brief history with Helen Carr
SummaryTranscriptChat

The University of Cambridge - A brief history with Helen Carr

History of Cambridge University

Overview of Cambridge University

  • Cambridge is recognized as one of the world's top five universities, hosting over 18,000 students globally.
  • The university has a rich history with notable alumni including scientists, poets, artists, politicians, and writers.

Founding and Early History

  • The university's origins trace back to the 12th century when scholars from Oxford fled to Cambridge after a conflict with townspeople.
  • In 1234, Cambridge University was formally established; its library contains some of the earliest books used by scholars.

Value and Significance of Early Texts

  • Early texts were expensive due to their beautiful illuminations and handwritten nature; they were often gifted by wealthy patrons.
  • Books were so valuable that they were literally chained to libraries to prevent theft, comparable in value today to cars or houses.

Development Through the Ages

  • The university expanded with more colleges founded by royalty; the River Cam served as a vital transport route for goods and building materials.
  • Rowing became popular among scholars who would travel between colleges via boats on the river.

Cultural Significance of the River Cam

  • The scenic views along the river are enhanced by green grass and trees that bloom in springtime.
  • Lord Byron swam in the river during his studies at Cambridge; there is even a swimming spot named "Byron's Pool."

Architectural Highlights

  • Clare College Bridge has an interesting story about its incomplete design due to insufficient payment for its architect.
  • The iconic Bridge of Sighs was inspired by Venetian architecture and commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1831.

King's College Chapel

  • Founded by King Henry VI in 1441, King's College Chapel is renowned for its choir and stunning Gothic architecture.
  • The chapel features stained glass windows and an altarpiece painted by Peter Paul Rubens.

Impact of Printing Press on Scholarship

  • After England's Civil War, under Henry VIII’s reign, significant advancements occurred with the introduction of printing presses at Cambridge.
  • The Pitt Building was constructed for the growing press operations which allowed scholarly works to be published widely.

Legacy of Isaac Newton

  • Isaac Newton studied at Trinity College where he published "Principia Mathematica," introducing groundbreaking theories including gravity.

History of Cambridge University

Architectural Significance and Growth

  • The Wren Library, designed by architect Christopher Wren, was built to accommodate the increasing number of books produced at Cambridge University.
  • The university expanded significantly in the 19th century, with notable additions like the Fitzwilliam Museum, attracting tourists and showcasing art and historical objects.

Scientific Advancements

  • In the early 20th century, Cambridge became a hub for scientific innovation, particularly in physics with John Cockcroft and Ernest Walton's work on splitting the atom.
  • Cockcroft and Walton were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their contributions that laid the groundwork for nuclear power.

Inclusion of Women

  • A pivotal moment in Cambridge's history was when women were finally allowed to enroll as students; Virginia Woolf lectured at Girton College, established as the first women's college in 1869.
  • Despite initial resistance including riots against women's degrees, progress continued with honorary degrees being awarded to women starting in 1948.

Modern-Day Impact

Video description

Join medieval historian, television producer and writer Helen Carr, as she guides us around the Colleges of Cambridge University. Helen brings to life a brief history of one of the world's leading educational institutions, starting with its origins at Peterhouse College and taking in some key parts of the 800-year history. You will also see for yourself the important role of Cambridge University Press in putting the University on the map. We take a look inside some College buildings and see Cambridge from the sky in a way few people get to experience – join us in this Inspire session to see it all!