Today in News History

On July 12, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1468, Juan del Encina, Spanish poet, playwright, and composer (probable; (died 1530) was born. In 1562, Fray Diego de Landa, acting Bishop of Yucatán, burns the sacred idols and books of the Maya. In 1801, British ships inflict heavy damage on Spanish and French ships in the Second Battle of Algeciras. In 1943, World War II: Battle of Kursk: German and Soviet forces engage in the Battle of Prokhorovka, one of the largest armored engagements of all time. In 1956, Mario Soto, Dominican baseball player was born. In 1962, Julio César Chávez, Mexican boxer was born. In 1973, A fire destroys the entire sixth floor of the National Personnel Records Center of the United States. In 1975, São Tomé and Príncipe declare independence from Portugal. In 1991, James Rodríguez, Colombian footballer was born. In 2012, A tank truck explosion kills more than 100 people in Okobie, Nigeria. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.