The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign was the product of a revolution in American life. The industrial revolution and rapid advances in science in the nineteenth century created the need for a new kind of university that would transcend the classics model to embrace professional and utilitarian education and meet the needs of society at large. In the intervening 150 years, additional revolutions in American life prompted by wars, prosperity, hard times, scientific discovery, and globalization have likewise continued to shape our University.

Through scholarship, exhibits, and public programming, the University of Illinois Alumni Association’s History and Traditions Programs foster greater appreciation for the rich heritage of the University and its contributions to society.

This web portal features articles and other historical resources created by the University of Illinois Alumni Association and our colleagues in the University Archives, the Office of Public Affairs, and other units at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.