Opened in 1958, the school is named for Kentucky lawyer, politician and associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court John Marshall Harlan.

In June 1957, the Chicago Board of Education approved work to begin building the new Harlan High School with a budget of $3.2 million bordered at 97th street and Michigan avenue.

[9] In December 1957, community members and parents protested the lack of a swimming pool being built in the school, which resulted in a months of negotiations.

[12] In August 1985, the school was designated as a "community academy" and began accepting students outside its attendance area through the Option for Knowledge program.

[13] Harlan added the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) academic program during the 2009-2010 school year.

[17] Harlan competes in the Chicago Public League (CPL) and is a member of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA).