Princeton Grads in Presidential History: From the White House to the Ivy League Courts

Princeton University, known for its distinguished alumni, has had a significant impact on presidential history with notable graduates such as James Madison and Woodrow Wilson. Beyond the White House, Princeton has also seen individuals like Adlai Stevenson, Bill Bradley, and Aaron Burr influence the political landscape.

One intriguing figure from Princeton’s past is Aaron Burr, a graduate of the Class of 1772 and the son of Aaron Burr Sr., who served as the second president of the College of New Jersey, which later became Princeton University. Aaron Burr Jr.’s political journey included a controversial vice presidency alongside Thomas Jefferson for the Democrat-Republican party in the early 1800s.

The election of 1800, which extended into 1801, saw Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr contend for the highest government offices, ultimately leading to Jefferson becoming President and Burr Vice President. However, Burr faced a tumultuous post-vice presidency period, including a famous duel with Alexander Hamilton and an unsuccessful New York governor’s race.

As of Presidents’ Day 2024, the Ivy League men’s basketball standings showcase fierce competition, with Cornell and Yale leading the pack at 8-1 each, followed closely by Princeton at 7-2. The intense matchups within the Ivy League have created an exciting race towards the upcoming tournament hosted by Columbia University.

Princeton’s recent victories against Yale and Brown have solidified their position as a strong contender in the Ivy League tournament. Standout performances from players like Xavian Lee, Matt Allocco, Caden Pierce, and Zach Martini have propelled the Tigers towards potential success in the tournament.

This weekend’s matchups against Harvard and Dartmouth will be crucial for Princeton as they aim to secure a coveted spot in the Ivy League tournament. The Princeton community eagerly anticipates the thrilling conclusion of the regular season and the subsequent tournament that promises intense competition and spirited gameplay.