Today in News History

On July 12, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1862, The Medal of Honor is authorized by the United States Congress. In 1881, Natalia Goncharova, Russian theatrical costume and set designer, painter and illustrator (died 1962) was born. In 1920, The Soviet-Lithuanian Peace Treaty is signed, by which Soviet Russia recognizes the independence of Lithuania. In 1978, Michelle Rodriguez, American actress was born. In 1981, Adrienne Camp, South African singer-songwriter was born. In 2001, Space Shuttle program: Space Shuttle Atlantis is launched on mission STS-104, carrying the Quest Joint Airlock to the International Space Station. In 2006, The 2006 Lebanon War begins. In 2007, Stan Zemanek, Australian radio and television host (born 1947) passed away. In 2008, Tony Snow, American journalist, 26th White House Press Secretary (born 1955) passed away. In 2012, Hamid Samandarian, Iranian director and playwright (born 1931) passed away. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.