Today in News History

On July 9, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 551, A major earthquake strikes Beirut, triggering a devastating tsunami that affects the coastal towns of Byzantine Phoenicia, causing thousands of deaths. In 1755, The Braddock Expedition is soundly defeated by a smaller French and Native American force in its attempt to capture Fort Duquesne in what is now downtown Pittsburgh. In 1850, Persian prophet Báb is executed in Tabriz, Persia. In 1863, American Civil War: The Siege of Port Hudson ends in a Union victory and, along with the fall of Vicksburg five days earlier, gives the Union complete control of the Mississippi River. In 1900, The Governor of Shanxi province in North China orders the execution of 45 foreign Christian missionaries and local church members, including children. In 1926, Chiang Kai-shek accepts the post of commander-in-chief of the National Revolutionary Army, marking the beginning of the Northern Expedition to unite China under the rule of the Nationalist government. In 1944, World War II: American forces take Saipan, bringing the Japanese archipelago within range of B-29 raids, and causing the downfall of the Tojo government. In 1955, The Russell-Einstein Manifesto calls for a reduction of the risk of nuclear warfare. In 2011, South Sudan gains independence and secedes from Sudan. In 2013, Toshi Seeger, American activist, co-founded the Clearwater Festival (born 1922) passed away. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.