Today in News History

On July 4, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1774, Orangetown Resolutions are adopted in the Province of New York, one of many protests against the British Parliament's Coercive Acts. In 1776, American Revolution: The United States Declaration of Independence is adopted by the Second Continental Congress. In 1778, American Revolutionary War: U.S. forces under George Clark capture Kaskaskia during the Illinois campaign. In 1831, Samuel Francis Smith writes "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" for the Boston, Massachusetts July 4 festivities. In 1937, Thomas Nagel, American philosopher and academic was born. In 1937, Richard Rhodes, American journalist and historian was born. In 1946, After 381 years of near-continuous colonial rule by various powers, the Philippines attains full independence from the United States. In 1950, Cold War: Radio Free Europe first broadcasts. In 1966, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signs the Freedom of Information Act into United States law. The act went into effect the next year. In 2004, The cornerstone of the Freedom Tower is laid on the World Trade Center site in New York City. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.