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Celebrating LSE's 130th anniversary

130 years of understanding the causes of things for the betterment of society.

LSE was founded on a bold idea: that knowledge, shared widely, could help build a better society. Discover our 130-year story of learning, innovation, research, and the incredible people who make our LSE community what it is today.

Our history since 1895

Commemorating the people, places and sometimes quirky events that make up the story of LSE.

The idea for LSE: a breakfast meeting at Borough Farm

A sketch drawing of the four people who founded LSE: Sidney Webb, Beatrice Webb, Graham Wallas, and George Bernard Shaw.

Meet Felix: our coat of arms and mascot

A stone artwork of the LSE beaver mascot on a wall.

From past to present: our digital library

A black and white photo of a lady carrying books is merged with an image of LSE Library.

Special guest speakers at LSE events

Hear from some of the most influential figures in the social sciences during our anniversary year.

From curiosity to prosperity: sharing the gains of science

20Apr
Dr France Anne Córdova

Global ideas for global challenges: a panel in honour of Nick Stern

22Apr
Ngozi

Greek Prime Ministers in the eye of the storm

29Apr
Dimitris Papadimitriou
LSE Events

LSE through the ages

Discover some highlights from our archives of life at LSE.
Lunch Hour Dance, 1920
1/9 Lunch Hour Dance, 1920.
Lunch Hour Dance, 1920
1/9 Lunch Hour Dance, 1920.
Charlotte and George Bernard Shaw seated centre, the Webbs seated either side. Leaving for a trip to Russia.
2/9 Charlotte and George Bernard Shaw, Beatrice and Sidney Webb, 1932.
LSE Old Building Roof Terrace, 1940s
3/9 LSE Old Building Roof Terrace, 1940s.
Haldane Room, Old Library, c1951.
4/9 Haldane Room, Old Library, c1951.
Woman on a scooter, Houghton Street c.1950s-1960s
5/9 Woman on a scooter, Houghton Street c.1960s.
Gay rights demonstration in Trafalgar Square including members of the Gay Liberation Front (GLF).
6/9 Demonstration, with Gay Liberation Front Banner, 1972.
Visit of the Chancellor of the University of London, HRH Princess Anne to the School, 8 May 1986
7/9 Visit of the Chancellor of the University of London, HRH Princess Anne to the School, 8 May 1986.
Loyd Grossman opens Pulse FM student radio station, 1999.
8/9 Loyd Grossman opens Pulse FM student radio station, 1999
Joan Armatrading, Kingdom Chorus Singers and Nelson Mandela wearing LSE cap, 2000.
9/9 Joan Armatrading, Kingdom Chorus Singers and Nelson Mandela wearing LSE cap, 2000

Our global impact in action

Learn how our research, alumni and volunteering communities are shaping the world.

LSE alumni shaping the future

Discover how our brilliant alumni are shaping every level of society around the world.
Many LSE alumni stand in the CBG square waving by some letters which spell "Alumni"

A global partnership at 25

Celebrating 25 years of the TRIUM Global Executive MBA, a partnership between LSE, HEC Paris and NYU Stern School of Business. Anniversary events throughout the year will bring together the TRIUM community across continents and sectors.
Staff with a sign reading TRIUM

LSE Research

Browse research news, blogs and films, search our repository of publications, or find a social science expert in your area of interest.
A researcher shows an exhibition visitor her research

Celebrating 130 years of LSE volunteers

Stories and reflections from alumni in honour of our 130th anniversary.
Two students stand with a colourful rainbow spinning wheel

LSE Health's Lifetime Achievement Awards

LSE entrance