Today in News History

On June 20, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1005, Ali az-Zahir, Fatimid caliph of Egypt (died 1036) was born. In 1914, Muazzez İlmiye Çığ, Turkish archaeologist and academic (died 2024) was born. In 1921, Byron Farwell, American historian and author (died 1999) was born. In 1926, Rehavam Ze'evi, Israeli general and politician, 9th Israeli Minister of Tourism (died 2001) was born. In 1927, Simin Behbahani, Iranian poet and activist (died 2014) was born. In 1946, Xanana Gusmão, Timorese soldier and politician, 1st President of East Timor was born. In 1948, Cirilo Flores, American bishop (died 2014) was born. In 1988, Haitian president Leslie Manigat is ousted from power in a coup d'état led by Lieutenant General Henri Namphy. In 1990, The 7.4 Mw Manjil-Rudbar earthquake affects northern Iran with a maximum Mercalli intensity of X (Extreme), killing 35,000-50,000, and injuring 60,000-105,000. In 2019, Iran's Air Defense Forces shoot down an American surveillance drone over the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions between the two countries. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.