History of the University of Kansas
A program born out of the KU Memorial Union, KU History transitioned to a new home under KU Libraries as an extension of University Archives at Kenneth Spencer Research Library in summer 2026. The program collects and shares the stories and experiences of the Jayhawk community.
Featured
History of Basketball at KU
Campus War Memorials
Origin of the Jayhawk
Stories of KU
Find out more about The University of Kansas and it's history by visiting the categories below and connecting to all of KU History's Articles.
Kansas Athletics
From Wilt Chamberlain's freshman debut to Jim Ryun's record-breaking mile, explore the people and moments that built KU's sports legacy — legendary basketball and football seasons, Olympic triumphs on the track, and lesser-known stories of wrestling champions, rivalries, and the origins of crimson and blue.
Historic KU Events
From presidential visits and campus milestones to hard-fought battles for civil rights, KU's response to a century of wars, and the growth of its medical school — explore the moments, protests, and turning points that shaped the university, including the 1970 sit-ins, Quantrill's Raid, the Spanish flu closure, and the 1970 Union firebombing.
Life at KU
From the origins of the Jayhawk and Rock Chalk chant to the campus newspapers, radio stations, and student groups that shaped everyday life on the Hill, discover the traditions, publications, and organizations that have defined the KU student experience — Hobo Day parades, the birth of the Daily Kansan, KJHK's launch, and more.
People of KU
From KU's first female graduate and Pluto-discoverer Clyde Tombaugh to legendary chancellors, professors, and campus characters, meet the students, alumni, faculty, and staff whose lives shaped the University — pioneering scientists, wartime casualties, and record-setting adventurers alike.
Places of KU
Tour the buildings and landmarks that built Mount Oread, from Old North College and Old Fraser Hall to Allen Field House, Watson Library, and the Campanile — stories of construction, fires, additions, and the halls, co-ops, and dorms where generations of Jayhawks lived and learned.
