Today in News History

On June 17, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1673, French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet reach the Mississippi River and become the first Europeans to make a detailed account of its course. In 1767, Samuel Wallis, a British sea captain, sights Tahiti and is considered the first European to reach the island. In 1863, American Civil War: Battle of Aldie in the Gettysburg Campaign. In 1877, American Indian Wars: Battle of White Bird Canyon: The Nez Perce defeat the U.S. Cavalry at White Bird Canyon in the Idaho Territory. In 1900, Boxer Rebellion: Western Allied and Japanese forces capture the Taku Forts in Tianjin, China. In 1916, Terry Gilkyson, American singer-songwriter and guitarist (died 1999) was born. In 1932, Bonus Army: Around a thousand World War I veterans amass at the United States Capitol as the U.S. Senate considers a bill that would give them certain benefits. In 1964, Steve Rhodes, English cricketer and coach was born. In 1968, Steve Georgallis, Australian rugby league player and coach was born. In 1972, Watergate scandal: Five White House operatives are arrested for burgling the offices of the Democratic National Committee during an attempt by members of the administration of President Richard M. Nixon to illegally wiretap the political opposition as part of a broader campaign to subvert the democratic process. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.