<P> Columbia University in New York City , United States , was founded in 1754 as King 's College by royal charter of King George II of England . It is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of New York and the fifth oldest in the United States . The period leading up to the school 's founding was marked in controversy , with various groups competing to determine its location and religious affiliation . Advocates of New York City met with success on the first point , while the Church of England prevailed on the latter . However , all constituencies agreed to commit themselves to principles of religious liberty in establishing the policies of the College . </P>
<P> Columbia University in New York City , United States , was founded in 1754 as King 's College by royal charter of King George II of England . It is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of New York and the fifth oldest in the United States . The period leading up to the school 's founding was marked in controversy , with various groups competing to determine its location and religious affiliation . Advocates of New York City met with success on the first point , while the Church of England prevailed on the latter . However , all constituencies agreed to commit themselves to principles of religious liberty in establishing the policies of the College . </P>
what was the original name of columbia university
what was the original name of columbia university
King 's College
King 's College