Today in News History

On July 13, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1863, American Civil War: The New York City draft riots begin three days of rioting which will later be regarded as the worst in United States history. In 1907, George Weller, American author, playwright, and journalist (died 2002) was born. In 1922, Martin Dies Sr., American journalist and politician (born 1870) passed away. In 1926, Thomas Clark, American politician (died 2020) was born. In 1935, Jack Kemp, American football player and politician, 9th United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (died 2009) was born. In 1973, Watergate scandal: Alexander Butterfield reveals the existence of a secret Oval Office taping system to investigators for the Senate Watergate Committee. In 1977, New York City: Amidst a period of financial and social turmoil experiences an electrical blackout lasting nearly 24 hours that leads to widespread fires and looting. In 1993, Davey Allison, American race car driver (born 1961) passed away. In 2013, Typhoon Soulik kills at least nine people and affects more than 160 million in East China and Taiwan. In 2016, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom David Cameron resigns, and is succeeded by Theresa May. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.