Today in News History

On June 29, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1170, A major earthquake hits Syria, badly damaging towns such as Hama and Shaizar and structures such as the Krak des Chevaliers and the cathedral of St. Peter in Antioch. In 1457, The Dutch city of Dordrecht is devastated by fire. In 1913, Earle Meadows, American pole vaulter (died 1992) was born. In 1922, Ralph Burns, American songwriter, bandleader, composer, conductor, arranger and pianist (died 2001) was born. In 1950, Korean War: U.S. President Harry S. Truman authorizes a sea blockade of Korea. In 1991, Suk Hyun-jun, South Korean footballer was born. In 1995, The Sampoong Department Store collapses in the Seocho District of Seoul, South Korea, killing 502 and injuring 937. In 2007, Joel Siegel, American journalist and critic (born 1943) passed away. In 2007, Fred Saberhagen, American soldier and author (born 1930) passed away. In 2014, The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant self-declares its caliphate in Syria and northern Iraq. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.