History of National Lampoon

Founded in 1876, the Harvard Lampoon's journey from a college humor magazine to a national comedic force is a story of humor gone wild. Picture this: a group of Harvard students in 1876, tired of the stuffy atmosphere of academia, decide to create their own outlet for laughter. That's how the Harvard Lampoon was born, a humor magazine that quickly became a campus institution. It wasn't just about silly jokes; the Lampoon aimed its wit at everything, from professors and social clubs to the absurdities of student life. This early version of the Lampoon laid the foundation for its future, a future where no topic was too sacred for satire.

The Lampoon's influence grew over time, attracting talented writers and artists. It became known for its edgy humor, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions. This reputation for pushing limits was key to its transformation. In the 1960s, several Lampoon alumni, including Doug Kenney, Henry Beard, and Robert Hoffman, decided to take their brand of humor to a wider audience. They envisioned a national humor magazine, something that would capture the spirit of the times. And so, in 1970, the National Lampoon was born.

The National Lampoon quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Its blend of satire, parody, and shock humor resonated with a generation eager to question authority. The magazine tackled everything from politics to advertising to everyday life, often with a healthy dose of absurdity. "The National Lampoon was a crucial part of the development of modern American comedy," says media critic Robert Thompson. Its influence can be seen in countless comedic works, from movies like "Animal House" (co-written by Lampoon alumni) to television shows like "Saturday Night Live."

The Lampoon's impact extended to the world of animation as well. While not directly involved in creating shows like "Garfield and Friends," "The Simpsons," or "South Park," the magazine's brand of humor helped pave the way for these shows' more adult-oriented and satirical styles. Think about the irreverent humor of "The Simpsons" or the boundary-pushing satire of "South Park." These shows, while distinct in their own right, owe a debt to the Lampoon's willingness to challenge comedic norms.

Conan O'Brien, a former Lampoon president, is a prime example of the magazine's lasting influence. His brand of self-deprecating and absurdist humor clearly reflects the Lampoon's spirit. "The Lampoon taught me to be fearless with comedy," O'Brien has said. From his writing on "The Simpsons" to his late-night talk show, O'Brien's comedic sensibility bears the mark of his Lampoon training.

The Harvard Lampoon's journey from a college humor magazine to a national comedic force is a testament to the power of irreverence. Its influence on comedy, particularly in the U.S., is undeniable. From its magazine days to its impact on film, television, and animation, the Lampoon helped shape the landscape of humor we know today.

---

Robert Thompson, "Television's Second Golden Age" (Continuum, 1996), "National Lampoon: The Life and Death of American Humor" (documentary, 2006), Conan O'Brien interview, The Paris Review (2007), Alan Beard, "The National Lampoon Story: How We Made America Laugh" (Chicago Review Press, 2006)