Today in News History

On June 24, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1230, The Siege of Jaén begins, in the context of the Spanish Reconquista. In 1314, First War of Scottish Independence: The Battle of Bannockburn concludes with a decisive victory by Scottish forces led by Robert the Bruce. In 1813, Battle of Beaver Dams: A British and Indian combined force defeats the United States Army. In 1866, Battle of Custoza: An Austrian army defeats the Italian army during the Austro-Prussian War. In 1908, Alfons Rebane, Estonian colonel (died 1976) was born. In 1940, World War II: Operation Collar, the first British Commando raid on occupied France, by No 11 Independent Company. In 1943, US military police attempt to arrest a black soldier in Bamber Bridge, England, sparking the Battle of Bamber Bridge mutiny that leaves one dead and seven wounded. In 1945, George Pataki, American lawyer and politician, 53rd Governor of New York was born. In 2002, The Igandu train disaster in Tanzania kills 281, the worst train accident in African history. In 2004, In New York, capital punishment is declared unconstitutional. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.