According to Darnton, for students of poor or minority backgrounds, Handlin’s presence at Harvard as a representative of the Jewish immigrant community was just as significant as his work.

“Here was living proof that Harvard was open to talent, and it could make room for people who were different,” Darnton said.

Handlin was made a Carl M. Loeb University Professor Emeritus upon his retirement and continued to research and write in his Widener Library study until his death.

“He was quite a presence, ancient as he was. He showed up every day in a suit,” said Darnton.

In addition to his academic work, Handlin helped found and direct Harvard’s Center for the Study of the History of Liberty in America and the Charles Warren Center for Studies in American History. He also served on the boards of the Fulbright Scholarships and Brandeis University and as a trustee for the New York Public Library.

Handlin’s first wife Mary Flug Handlin died in 1976. He is survived by his second wife of 34 years, Lillian Bombach Handlin, as well as his brother and three children. A memorial has yet to be scheduled.