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This Week in Princeton History for February 26-March 4


In this week’s installment of our ongoing series bringing you the history of Princeton University and its faculty, students, and alumni, Oprah Winfrey makes a surprise visit, sales of an undergraduate publication are banned, and more.

February 27, 1931—The Daily Princetonian reports on a recent interview with Bruce Barton, a prominent author and advertising executive who will later represent Manhattan in the U.S. Congress, quoting him as saying, “Going to college is a current fad, like Backgammon,” but because “People who would be ruined by college would be ruined anyway,” it hurts no one.

February 28, 1998—Oprah Winfrey makes an unannounced visit to Lowrie House to record an interview with Toni Morrison.

March 1, 1948—Although the faculty decline to discipline the students responsible for the Nassau Sovereign’s “Unofficial Register,” which offended many, a ban on sales of the student publication in the U-Store remains in effect.

The “Unofficial Register of Princeton University” mimicked the Official Register of Princeton University in many respects, but offered a student’s perspective on the merits of certain professors and courses rather than neutral information. Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students Records (AC136), Box 12

March 3, 1969—The faculty approve a program in Afro-American studies.

For last week’s installment in this series, click here.

Fact check: We always strive for accuracy, but if you believe you see an error, please contact us.


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