Cambridge was founded in 1630 by Puritan settlers who established the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

The city is located on the north bank of the Charles River, opposite Boston, and is a part of the Greater Boston metropolitan area.

Cambridge covers an area of 6.4 square miles (17 km²) and has a population of approximately 119,000 residents, making it the fifth-most populous city in Massachusetts.

The population of Cambridge is diverse, with a significant proportion of foreign-born residents and a large student population due to the presence of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Cambridge's economy is anchored by the education and technology sectors, with major employers including Harvard University, MIT, and several biotech and pharmaceutical companies.

The city is home to numerous cultural attractions, including the Harvard Art Museums, the MIT Museum, and the American Repertory Theater.

Cambridge Common, the city's central park, is a historical landmark that has been used for public gatherings and protests since the 17th century.

The Longfellow National Historic Site preserves the home of the renowned poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Cambridge is home to the Cambridge Historical Society, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting the city's rich history.

The city has a strong tradition of political activism and played a significant role in the American Revolution and the abolitionist movement.

Cambridge is part of the "Innovation Corridor," a region known for its high concentration of research institutions, technology companies, and venture capital.

The city is well-connected by public transportation, including the MBTA Red Line subway and numerous bus routes.

Cambridge is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Harvard Yard Historic District and the Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site.

The city hosts annual festivals such as the Cambridge Science Festival, the Harvard Square Oktoberfest, and the Cambridge River Festival.

Cambridge has a vibrant local tradition known as "punting" on the Charles River, where individuals use flat-bottomed boats to navigate the river while standing on a long pole.