Today in News History

On July 12, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 154, Bardaisan, Syrian astrologer, scholar, and philosopher (died 222) was born. In 937, Rudolph II of Burgundy (born 880) passed away. In 1735, Mathematical calculations suggest that it is on this day that dwarf planet Pluto moved inside the orbit of Neptune for the last time before 1979. In 1801, French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons makes his first comet discovery. In the next 27 years he discovers another 36 comets, more than any other person in history. In 1914, The US Navy launches the USS Nevada (BB-36) as its first standard-type battleship. In 1919, The eight-hour day and free Sunday become law for workers in the Netherlands. In 1922, The Hollywood Bowl opens. In 1960, Congo Crisis: The State of Katanga breaks away from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 1979, America's first space station, Skylab, is destroyed as it re-enters the Earth's atmosphere over the Indian Ocean. In 1995, Yugoslav Wars: Srebrenica massacre begins; lasts until 22 July. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.