What is Oxbridge?
'''Oxbridge''' is a word that is used to mean the [[University of Oxford|University of '''Ox'''ford]] and the [[University of Cambridge|University of Cam'''bridge''']] in [[England]]. It used to mean a [[fictional]] mix of the two universities, but now refers to both in real life.<ref>{{cite book | title=Oxford English Dictionary |url=http://www.oed.com/view/Entry/135559 | publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |quote=Originally: a fictional university, esp. regarded as a composite of Oxford and Cambridge. Subsequently also (now esp.): the universities of Oxford and Cambridge regarded together, esp. in contrast to other British universities. ''adj'' Of, relating to, characteristic of, or reminiscent of Oxbridge (freq. with implication of superior social or intellectual status |edition = 3rd |year=2005}}</ref> The word 'Oxbridge' started because the two universities are very similar: * They are the two oldest universities in England; both were started more than 800 years ago.<ref name=oxfordhistory>{{cite web | title=A brief history of the University of Oxford | url=http://www.ox.ac.uk/about_the_university/introducing_oxford/a_brief_history_of_the_university/index.html | accessdate=2008-03-29 | archive-date=2008-04-11 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080411014607/http://www.ox.ac.uk/about_the_university/introducing_oxford/a_brief_history_of_the_university/index.html | url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=cambridgehistory>{{cite web | title=A brief history of the University of Cambridge - Early records | url=http://www.cam.ac.uk/univ/history/records.html | accessdate = 2008-06-27}}</ref> * They were the only universities in England until the [[19th century]]. * Between them they have produced a large number of Britain's most well known [[scientist]]s, [[writer]]s, and [[politician]]s,<ref>[http://www.blanchflower.org/alumni/camalumn.html Famous alumni and students of Cambridge University]</ref> as well as famous people in many other jobs.<ref>[http://education.guardian.co.uk/higher/news/story/0,,2265883,