Columbia University Libraries
The occupation of five buildings in April 1968 marked a sea change in the relationships among Columbia University administration, its faculty, its student body, and its neighbors. Featuring documents, photographs, and audio from the University Archives, 1968: Columbia in Crisis examines the the causes, actions, and aftermath of a protest that captivated the campus, the nation, and the world. This online exhibition is based upon a physical exhibition of the same name which was on display in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library from March 17 to August 1, 2008. Unless otherwise noted, all images and documents are from collections found in the Columbia University Archives.
Items in 1968: Columbia in Crisis
Strike Coordinating Committee Press Conference
ark Rudd and other SDS leaders at a Strike Coordinating Committee Press conference held of Friday, April 26, 1968
Learn MoreWomen occupiers sleeping on floor of Fayerweather.
Women occupiers sleeping on floor of Fayerweather.
Learn More"Live Music, ROTC, Food, ROTC, Theater, ROTC"
Circular: "Live Music, ROTC, Food, ROTC, Theater, ROTC"
Learn More"Stop Columbia's Gym Crow"
Circular: "Stop Columbia's Gym Crow"
Learn More"Walkout Disrupts Memorial to King"
Columbia Daily Spectator article: "Walkout Disrupts Memorial to King," April 10, 1968.
Learn More"Women in the Strike"
"Women in the Strike" by Nancy Biberman, May 13, 1968
Learn MoreAfter the police bust
President Kirk's office after the police bust
Learn MoreApril 2, 1968 letter from President Kirk in response to Rudd and Freudenberg.
April 2, 1968 letter from President Kirk written in response to the one he received from Mark Rudd and Nicholas Freudenberg.
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