Today in News History

On July 12, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 937, Rudolph II of Burgundy (born 880) passed away. In 1864, American Civil War: Battle of Fort Stevens; Confederate forces attempt to invade Washington, D.C. In 1899, Wilfrid Israel, German businessman and philanthropist (died 1943) was born. In 1906, Herbert Wehner, German politician, Minister of Intra-German Relations (died 1990) was born. In 1911, Erna Flegel, German nurse who was still present in the Führerbunker when it was captured by Soviet troops (died 2006) was born. In 1920, In the East Prussian plebiscite the local populace decides to remain with Weimar Germany. In 1940, World War II: Vichy France regime is formally established. Philippe Pétain becomes Chief of the French State. In 1943, World War II: Allied invasion of Sicily: German and Italian troops launch a counter-attack on Allied forces in Sicily. In 1943, Massacres of Poles in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army within the Reichskommissariat Ukraine (Volhynia) peak. In 1995, Yugoslav Wars: Srebrenica massacre begins; lasts until 22 July. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.