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Oxford University Press

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Explore the rich history of Oxford University Press, tracing its evolution and impact on publishing through the centuries. Discover key milestones!

Founded January 1, 1586
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WED · 01 JAN 2020

OUP's Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

In 2020, Oxford University Press responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing free access to a wide range of digital resources to support remote learning and research. This initiative demonstrated OUP's commitment to education and its adaptability in challenging times.

SUN · 01 JAN 2012

OUP Becomes the Largest University Press

By 2012, Oxford University Press had grown to become the largest university press in the world, with a presence in over 50 countries. Its extensive catalog of academic, educational, and reference works underscored its global influence in publishing.

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SAT · 01 JAN 2005

Launch of Oxford Scholarship Online

In 2005, Oxford University Press launched Oxford Scholarship Online, a digital platform providing access to thousands of academic works. This initiative marked a significant step in OUP's digital transformation, enhancing the accessibility of scholarly content worldwide.

SUN · 01 JAN 1978

OUP's Centenary of Academic Publishing

In 1978, Oxford University Press celebrated the centenary of its formal establishment as a major academic publisher. This milestone highlighted OUP's enduring commitment to producing high-quality scholarly works and its significant contributions to global education and research.

FRI · 01 JAN 1954

Publication of the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary, first published in 1954, became a key resource for English language learners worldwide. Its innovative approach to defining words in simple language made it an essential tool for non-native speakers.

WED · 01 JAN 1896

Establishment of OUP's New York Office

In 1896, Oxford University Press expanded its operations internationally by opening an office in New York City. This move allowed OUP to better serve the American market and marked the beginning of its transformation into a global publishing powerhouse.

WED · 01 JAN 1879

Launch of the Oxford English Dictionary

In 1879, OUP began work on the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), a monumental project to compile a comprehensive dictionary of the English language. The first fascicle was published in 1884, and the full dictionary was completed in 1928, revolutionizing lexicography.

FRI · 01 JAN 1768

Publication of Clarendon Press Series

The Clarendon Press series, initiated in 1768, became one of OUP's most prestigious imprints, known for high-quality scholarly works. Named after the Clarendon Building, this series helped OUP establish a global reputation for academic publishing.

SUN · 01 JAN 1713

Appointment of First Delegates

In 1713, Oxford University Press appointed its first Delegates, a group of senior academics responsible for overseeing the Press's operations. This governance structure ensured that OUP's publishing activities aligned with the academic standards of the University of Oxford.

TUE · 01 JAN 1675

OUP's First Bible Printing

In 1675, Oxford University Press printed its first Bible, a significant milestone that expanded its influence in religious and academic publishing. This move helped solidify OUP's position as a leading publisher of religious texts, a role it continues to play today.

WED · 01 JAN 1586

First Book Published by OUP

In 1586, Oxford University Press published its first book, a commentary on the Apostles' Creed by Thomas Sampson. This marked the beginning of OUP's long history in academic publishing, establishing its reputation for producing scholarly works.

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TUE · 01 JAN 1478

Founding of Oxford University Press

Oxford University Press (OUP) was established in 1478, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious publishing houses in the world. Its origins can be traced back to the University of Oxford's need to produce books for its own use, which led to the establishment of a printing press.

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That's every defining moment so far. New events are added only when the reporting warrants it.

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