Today in News History

On July 1, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1885, The Congo Free State is established by King Leopold II of Belgium. In 1916, World War I: First day on the Somme: On the first day of the Battle of the Somme 19,000 soldiers of the British Army are killed and 40,000 wounded. In 1957, Sean O'Driscoll, English footballer and manager was born. In 1958, The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation links television broadcasting across Canada via microwave. In 1964, Bernard Laporte, French rugby player and coach was born. In 1965, Garry Schofield, English rugby player and coach was born. In 1965, Wally Hammond, English cricketer (born 1903) passed away. In 1966, The first color television transmission in Canada takes place from Toronto. In 1987, The American radio station WFAN in New York City is launched as the world's first all-sports radio station. In 2007, Smoking in England is banned in all public indoor spaces. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.