Harvard Lampoon

The Harvard Lampoon, established in 1876, is one of the oldest humor magazines in the United States and one of Harvard University's most prestigious and storied institutions. Founded at a time when college humor magazines were becoming popular fixtures on American campuses, the Lampoon distinguished itself through sharp satire, parody, and comedic writing that often targeted both university life and broader cultural phenomena. The magazine has served as a training ground for some of comedy's most successful writers and performers, many of whom went on to work for Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, The Late Show, and other major entertainment venues. The Lampoon's editorial offices have been home to legendary comedy talent, and contributor lists read like a who's who of American comedy. The publication maintains its satirical tradition while adapting to changing media landscapes, continuing to produce parody issues, comedy sketches, and digital content. As an institution, the Harvard Lampoon represents the intersection of intellectual humor, creative writing, and comedic innovation, embodying the university's cultural vitality and the American tradition of college-based satirical publishing that dates back over a century and a half.