Today in News History

On June 29, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1170, A major earthquake hits Syria, badly damaging towns such as Hama and Shaizar and structures such as the Krak des Chevaliers and the cathedral of St. Peter in Antioch. In 1194, Sverre is crowned King of Norway, leading to his excommunication by the Catholic Church and civil war. In 1457, The Dutch city of Dordrecht is devastated by fire. In 1864, At least 99 people, mostly German and Polish immigrants, are killed in Canada's worst railway disaster after a train fails to stop for an open drawbridge and plunges into the Rivière Richelieu near St-Hilaire, Quebec. In 1880, Ludwig Beck, German general (died 1944) was born. In 1882, Franz Seldte, German captain and politician, Reich Minister for Labour (died 1947) was born. In 1906, Heinz Harmel, German general (died 2000) was born. In 1918, Heini Lohrer, Swiss ice hockey player (died 2011) was born. In 1958, Dieter Althaus, German politician was born. In 1976, The Conference of Communist and Workers Parties of Europe convenes in East Berlin. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.