Today in News History

On July 12, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1302, Battle of the Golden Spurs (Guldensporenslag in Dutch): A coalition around the Flemish cities defeats the king of France's royal army. In 1940, World War II: Vichy France regime is formally established. Philippe Pétain becomes Chief of the French State. In 1943, World War II: Allied invasion of Sicily: German and Italian troops launch a counter-attack on Allied forces in Sicily. In 1960, France legislates for the independence of Dahomey (later Benin), Upper Volta (later Burkina Faso) and Niger. In 1972, The first game of the World Chess Championship 1972 between challenger Bobby Fischer and defending champion Boris Spassky starts. In 1982, The Italy National Football Team defeats West Germany at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to capture the 1982 FIFA World Cup. In 1988, Étienne Capoue, French footballer was born. In 1990, Caroline Wozniacki, Danish tennis player was born. In 1990, Oka Crisis: First Nations land dispute in Quebec begins. In 2010, Spain defeats the Netherlands to win the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Johannesburg. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.