Today in News History

On July 9, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 551, A major earthquake strikes Beirut, triggering a devastating tsunami that affects the coastal towns of Byzantine Phoenicia, causing thousands of deaths. In 1776, George Washington orders the Declaration of Independence to be read out to members of the Continental Army in Manhattan, while thousands of British troops on Staten Island prepare for the Battle of Long Island. In 1807, The second Treaty of Tilsit is signed between France and Prussia, ending the War of the Fourth Coalition. In 1850, Persian prophet Báb is executed in Tabriz, Persia. In 1850, Zachary Taylor, American general and politician, 12th President of the United States (born 1784) passed away. In 1929, Hassan II of Morocco (died 1999) was born. In 1955, The Russell-Einstein Manifesto calls for a reduction of the risk of nuclear warfare. In 1999, Days of student protests begin after Iranian police and hardliners attack a student dormitory at the University of Tehran. In 2004, The Senate Report on Iraqi WMD Intelligence is released by the United States Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, casting doubt on the rationale for the Iraq War. In 2011, South Sudan gains independence and secedes from Sudan. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.