Formerly known as the Howard Normal and Theological Institute, with the purpose to provide education to teachers and preachers, Howard University was chartered by Congress and approved by President Andrew Johnson on March 2, 1867, in Washington, D.C.
This was to provide higher education opportunities for African Americans, particularly in liberal arts and professions. The school was named after Civil War hero Major General Oliver O. Howard, head of the post-Civil War Freedmen’s Bureau.
It was said that it was his influence on the United States Congress to appropriate funds for the school, with the purpose to educate newly freed slaves, and remains a premiere institution for Black excellence.