Today in News History

On June 23, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1780, American Revolution: Battle of Springfield fought in and around Springfield, New Jersey (including Short Hills, formerly of Springfield, now of Millburn Township). In 1812, War of 1812: Great Britain revokes the restrictions on American commerce, thus eliminating one of the chief reasons for going to war. In 1887, The Rocky Mountains Park Act becomes law in Canada creating the nation's first national park, Banff National Park. In 1914, Mexican Revolution: Pancho Villa takes Zacatecas from Victoriano Huerta. In 1919, Estonian War of Independence: The decisive defeat of the Baltische Landeswehr in the Battle of Cēsis; this date is celebrated as Victory Day in Estonia. In 1941, The Lithuanian Activist Front declares independence from the Soviet Union and forms the Provisional Government of Lithuania; it lasts only briefly as the Nazis will occupy Lithuania a few weeks later. In 1956, The French National Assembly takes the first step in creating the French Community by passing the Loi Cadre, transferring a number of powers from Paris to elected territorial governments in French West Africa. In 2008, Lilliana Ketchman, American dancer and YouTuber was born. In 2013, Bobby Bland, American singer-songwriter (born 1930) passed away. In 2016, The United Kingdom votes in a referendum to leave the European Union, by 52% to 48%. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.