Tianjin University (TJU), referred to as Tianda, is the predecessor of Beiyang University. It was founded on October 2, 1895. It is the first modern university in China and the pioneer of modern higher education in China. It is well-known at home and abroad for its motto of "seeking truth from facts", the school spirit of "rigorous scholarship" and the tradition of "patriotism and dedication". In 1951, it was renamed "Tianjin University" after the adjustment of national colleges and departments, and it has been used to this day.