Today in News History

On July 4, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1790, George Everest, Welsh geographer and surveyor (died 1866) was born. In 1818, US Flag Act of 1818 goes into effect creating a 13 stripe flag with a star for each state. New stars would be added on July 4 after a new state had been admitted. In 1831, Samuel Francis Smith writes "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" for the Boston, Massachusetts July 4 festivities. In 1845, Thomas John Barnardo, Irish philanthropist and humanitarian (died 1905) was born. In 1863, American Civil War: Retreat from Gettysburg: The Confederate Army of Northern Virginia under Robert E. Lee withdraws from the battlefield after losing the Battle of Gettysburg, signaling an end to his last invasion of the North. In 1900, Nellie Mae Rowe, American folk artist (died 1982) was born. In 1910, The Johnson-Jeffries riots occur after African-American boxer Jack Johnson knocks out white boxer Jim Jeffries in the 15th round. Between 11 and 26 people are killed and hundreds more injured. In 1926, Lake Underwood, American race car driver and businessman (died 2008) was born. In 1941, World War II: The Burning of the Riga synagogues: The Great Choral Synagogue in German-occupied Riga is burnt with 300 Jews locked in the basement. In 1958, Carl Valentine, Canadian soccer player, coach, and manager was born. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.