Today in News History

On June 18, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 656, Ali becomes Caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate. In 1265, A draft Byzantine-Venetian treaty is concluded between Venetian envoys and Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos, but is not ratified by Doge Reniero Zeno. In 1812, The United States declaration of war upon the United Kingdom is signed by President James Madison, beginning the War of 1812. In 1887, The Reinsurance Treaty between Germany and Russia is signed. In 1940, Appeal of 18 June by Charles de Gaulle. In 1948, Britain, France and the United States announce that on June 21, the Deutsche Mark will be introduced in western Germany and West Berlin. Over the next six days, Communists increasingly restrict access to Berlin. In 1951, Mohammed Al-Sager, Kuwaiti journalist and politician was born. In 1974, Sergey Sharikov, Russian fencer and coach (died 2015) was born. In 1979, SALT II is signed by the United States and the Soviet Union. In 1982, John Cheever, American novelist and short story writer (born 1912) passed away. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.