Who was the second president of Harvard University? Unpacking the Early Leadership of a Colonial College

Who was the second president of Harvard University? Unpacking the Early Leadership of a Colonial College

When we think of Harvard University, we often picture a venerable institution steeped in history and academic prestige. But who was at the helm during its nascent years? While John Harvard himself is famously associated with the university's founding gift of books and half his estate, he was not its president. The question of who was the second president of Harvard University leads us to a pivotal figure in the early development of this esteemed American institution: Increase Mather.

The First President: A Foundation Laid

Before we delve into the second president, it's important to acknowledge the first. The founding of Harvard College in 1636 was a momentous occasion, and the college's first president was Henry Dunster. Dunster, a graduate of Cambridge University in England, served from 1640 to 1654. His tenure was marked by the establishment of the college's initial curriculum, the implementation of its first charter, and the crucial task of shaping the academic and spiritual direction of this fledgling institution in the New World. He also played a significant role in the translation of the Bay Psalm Book, an early and influential work of American literature.

Increase Mather: The Second President and His Enduring Legacy

Following Henry Dunster's resignation, the mantle of leadership passed to a man whose influence would resonate through both the academic and religious spheres of colonial Massachusetts: Increase Mather. Mather officially became the president of Harvard College in 1681 and served until 1701. His twenty-year presidency was a period of considerable growth and transformation for the college.

A Life of Scholarship and Influence

Increase Mather was born in 1639, the son of Richard Mather, a prominent Puritan minister. He graduated from Harvard College in 1656 and went on to earn a Master of Arts degree. His intellectual prowess and deep theological convictions made him a leading figure in Puritan New England. Before becoming president, he served as a minister at the Second Church in Boston, a position of considerable influence.

Key Contributions During His Presidency:

• Academic Expansion: Under Mather's leadership, Harvard's curriculum continued to evolve. He was a strong advocate for a rigorous education rooted in classical learning and theology, but also recognized the need for scientific inquiry.
• Strengthening the Faculty: Mather worked to attract and retain talented scholars, laying the groundwork for Harvard's future academic excellence.
• Navigating Political and Religious Strife: The late 17th century was a tumultuous time in colonial Massachusetts. Mather, as president, had to contend with evolving relationships with England, including the revocation of the Massachusetts Bay Colony's charter. He was a skilled diplomat and a steadfast defender of Puritan principles, often acting as a liaison between the colony and the Crown.
• Championing Reason and Enlightenment: While a devout Puritan, Mather was also a proponent of reasoned discourse and scientific exploration. He was one of the first American intellectuals to embrace aspects of the burgeoning Enlightenment, advocating for the use of observation and reason in understanding the natural world. This forward-thinking approach set Harvard on a path toward intellectual modernization.
• The Salem Witch Trials: A significant and controversial episode during Mather's presidency was the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. While he initially supported the trials, he later grew concerned about the evidence and methods used. His influential treatise, Cases of Conscience Concerning Evil Spirits and Demoniacal Possession, published in 1693, is widely credited with helping to quell the hysteria and advocating for more prudent and evidence-based legal proceedings. This demonstrated a commitment to justice and intellectual honesty, even in the face of prevailing societal beliefs.

A Lasting Impact

Increase Mather's tenure as president was a period of consolidation and intellectual advancement for Harvard. He solidified the college's commitment to both theological training and secular learning, preparing it for the challenges and opportunities of the 18th century. His intellectual breadth and his ability to navigate complex social and political landscapes left an indelible mark on the institution.

The Succession: A Glimpse into Harvard's Early Leadership

After Increase Mather stepped down in 1701, the presidency was assumed by Samuel Willard, who served until his death in 1707. Willard was also a distinguished theologian and scholar, continuing the tradition of strong leadership at Harvard. The early presidents, from Dunster to Mather and Willard, were instrumental in shaping the foundational principles and academic trajectory of what would become one of the world's most renowned universities.

Therefore, to answer the question directly: Increase Mather was the second president of Harvard University.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long did Increase Mather serve as president of Harvard?

Increase Mather served as the president of Harvard University for twenty years, from 1681 to 1701. This was a substantial period, allowing him to implement significant changes and guide the institution through a critical phase of its development.

Why is Increase Mather significant beyond his presidency?

Increase Mather was a towering figure in colonial New England, not only as president of Harvard but also as a prominent minister, theologian, and intellectual. He was a prolific writer, a respected public servant, and a key figure in the political and religious life of Massachusetts. His involvement in the Salem Witch Trials, particularly his later criticisms, also marked him as a figure willing to re-evaluate and stand against prevailing injustices.

What was the state of Harvard University when Increase Mather became president?

When Increase Mather became president in 1681, Harvard was still a relatively young institution, established just over four decades prior. It had established a core curriculum and a tradition of training clergy, but it was in a period of growth and consolidation. Mather inherited a college that was laying its foundations and faced the challenge of expanding its academic offerings and its influence in a changing colonial society.