History of West Point The United States Military Academy at West Point has played an outsized role in American history, as have its graduates. Contact the USMA historian History of West Point The United States Military Academy at West Point has played an outsized role in American history, as have its graduates. Contact the USMA historian Breadcrumb about history of west point Registrar (left) MENU Academy Leadership Developing Leaders of Character History of West Point Modernization Plan Accreditation & Assessment Visit the Academy Academic Calendar https://www.youtube.com/embed/htMOe7t5ioA?si=UuCSjaWNk1s_3nim A Brief History of West PointThe United States Military Academy (USMA), established in 1802, is renowned for producing exceptional leaders. Situated in West Point, New York, the academy was initially founded by President Thomas Jefferson to train officers for the rapidly expanding army. Throughout its history, West Point has evolved, adapting to the changing needs of the nation's defense. USMA has consistently upheld its mission of educating, training, and inspiring cadets to become leaders of character, prepared to serve their country with honor and distinction.USMA’s rich history links its graduates as part of the Long Gray Line, and those graduates have played an integral part in the nation’s history. Read more about West Point history Celebrate the Army's 250th Learn more about the Army's 250th Birthday Notable GraduatesOver 80,000 men and women have graduated from the U.S. Military Academy since its founding in 1802. Academy graduates have excelled in academia, business, science, and government, as well as the military. Seventy-seven have received the Medal of Honor; two (Grant and Eisenhower) were presidents of the United States, and many are senior Army leaders today. Learn more about notable graduates Mission StatementWest Point’s mission is to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate becomes a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, and Country, and prepared for a lifetime of selfless service to the Army and the nation. The Academy achieves this through a rigorous academic curriculum, military training, physical development, and moral-ethical education—integrating all aspects of cadet life to develop leaders who can think critically, act decisively, and lead honorably in complex and challenging environments. Learn more about the mission statement Coat of Arms and MottoWest Point’s coat of arms and motto, “Duty, Honor, Country,” were adopted in 1898 to reflect the academy’s national character, military role, and educational mission. Featuring symbols like a sword, Athena’s helmet, and the American eagle, the design embodies war, wisdom, peace, and patriotism. Since then, the coat of arms has become a lasting emblem of West Point’s ideals and tradition. Learn more about the coat of arms and motto History of Cadet UniformsWest Point cadet uniforms, rooted in the adoption of “cadet gray” in 1816, reflect both tradition and function. From full dress coats and overcoats to summer whites and gym attire, cadets have a uniform for nearly every occasion, symbolizing pride, discipline, and heritage. Learn more about the history of the cadet uniform USMA Colors and Color GuardWest Point’s Colors symbolize tradition, unity, and heritage. First established in 1812, the Corps adopted flags reflecting its Army roots, later adding black, gold, and gray in 1899. Over time, significant flags—including Corps Colors, the Army flag, and the Bicentennial flag—were added. Today, the Color Guard carries the U.S., Army, and Academy Colors, honoring centuries of history and pride. Learn more about the UMSA colors and color guard Visit the West Point MuseumSince 1843, the mission of the West Point Museum has been to collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret historically significant artifacts and stimulate interest in the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Army, and the Profession of Arms. The West Point Museum also supplements academic, cultural, and military instruction and provides educational programs and services for cadets, the military, and civilian personnel.The museum features more than 60,000 Army historical artifacts that inspire and educate the U.S. Corps of Cadets daily. The holdings of the West Point Museum are displayed not only within the museum’s walls at Pershing Center, but throughout the U.S. Military Academy's buildings and grounds. Explore the West Point Museum Virtual History Tour Launch Experience Explore the history of West Point Cadet Milestones Cadets at West Point progress through distinct developmental milestones that mirror the Academy’s evolution over more than 200 years. Each milestone marks a pivotal stage in their transformation from civilian to commissioned Army officer, reflecting West Point’s long history of cultivating military leaders. Learn more about milestones USMA Traditions West Point’s Corps of Cadets participates in enduring traditions—such as parades on the Plain, Ring Weekend, and the Army–Navy Game—that reflect the Academy’s deep historical roots. These touchpoints build a shared sense of heritage and unity across the cadet experience. Learn more about traditions Get Involved Volunteering at West Point offers a unique opportunity to contribute to an institution whose legacy has shaped our nation’s leaders for more than two centuries. By giving your time and talents, you become part of the Academy’s living history and help support the cadets who will lead the Army into the future. Explore volunteer opportunities