Today in News History

On July 2, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1820, George Law Curry, American publisher and politician, 5th Governor of the Oregon Territory (died 1878) was born. In 1890, The U.S. Congress passes the Sherman Antitrust Act. In 1932, Dave Thomas, American businessman and philanthropist, founded Wendy's (died 2002) was born. In 1937, Richard Petty, American race car driver and sportscaster was born. In 1952, Sylvia Rivera, American transgender rights activist (died 2002) was born. In 1954, Chris Huhne, English journalist and politician, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change was born. In 1962, The first Walmart store, then known as Wal-Mart, opens for business in Rogers, Arkansas. In 1963, Alicia Patterson, American publisher, co-founded Newsday (born 1906) passed away. In 1964, Civil rights movement: U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signs the Civil Rights Act of 1964 meant to prohibit segregation in public places. In 1997, The Bank of Thailand floats the baht, triggering the Asian financial crisis. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.