Today in News History

On July 13, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1573, Eighty Years' War: The Siege of Haarlem ends after seven months. In 1586, Anglo-Spanish War: A convoy of English ships from the Levant Company manage to repel a fleet of eleven Spanish and Maltese galleys off the Mediterranean island of Pantelleria. In 1863, American Civil War: The New York City draft riots begin three days of rioting which will later be regarded as the worst in United States history. In 1896, Mordecai Ardon, Israeli painter and educator (died 1992) was born. In 1922, Helmy Afify Abd El-Bar, Egyptian military commander (died 2011) was born. In 1930, Naomi Shemer, Israeli singer-songwriter (died 2004) was born. In 1977, Somalia declares war on Ethiopia, starting the Ogaden War. In 1990, Kieran Foran, New Zealand rugby league player was born. In 2008, Battle of Wanat begins when Taliban and al-Qaeda guerrillas attack US Army and Afghan National Army troops in Afghanistan. The U.S. deaths were, at that time, the most in a single battle since the beginning of operations in 2001. In 2016, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom David Cameron resigns, and is succeeded by Theresa May. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.