Today in News History

On July 3, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1863, American Civil War: The final day of the Battle of Gettysburg culminates with Pickett's Charge. In 1890, Idaho is admitted as the 43rd U.S. state. In 1913, Confederate veterans at the Great Reunion of 1913 reenact Pickett's Charge; upon reaching the high-water mark of the Confederacy they are met by the outstretched hands of friendship from Union survivors. In 1935, Harrison Schmitt, American geologist, astronaut, and politician was born. In 1938, United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicates the Eternal Light Peace Memorial and lights the eternal flame at Gettysburg Battlefield. In 1950, James Hahn, American judge and politician, 40th Mayor of Los Angeles was born. In 1970, The Troubles: The "Falls Curfew" begins in Belfast, Northern Ireland. In 1979, U.S. President Jimmy Carter signs the first directive for secret aid to the opponents of the pro-Soviet regime in Kabul. In 1988, United States Navy warship USS Vincennes shoots down Iran Air Flight 655 over the Persian Gulf, killing all 290 people aboard. In 2005, Gaylord Nelson, American lawyer and politician, 35th Governor of Wisconsin (born 1916) passed away. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.