Today in News History

On June 18, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. 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 1857, Henry Clay Folger, American businessman and philanthropist, founded the Folger Shakespeare Library (died 1930) was born. In 1887, The Reinsurance Treaty between Germany and Russia is signed. In 1931, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Brazilian sociologist, academic, and politician, 34th President of Brazil was born. In 1945, William Joyce ("Lord Haw-Haw") is charged with treason for his pro-German propaganda broadcasting during World War II. 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 1953, Peter Donohoe, English pianist and educator was born. In 1958, Peter Altmaier, German jurist and politician, Federal Minister for Special Affairs of Germany was born. In 1979, SALT II is signed by the United States and the Soviet Union. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.