Today in News History

On July 12, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1691, Battle of Aughrim (Julian calendar): The decisive victory of William III of England's forces in Ireland. In 1862, The Medal of Honor is authorized by the United States Congress. In 1920, The Soviet-Lithuanian Peace Treaty is signed, by which Soviet Russia recognizes the independence of Lithuania. In 1944, Delia Ephron, American author, playwright, and screenwriter was born. In 1961, ČSA Flight 511 crashes at Casablanca-Anfa Airport in Morocco, killing 72. In 1967, Riots begin in Newark, New Jersey. In 1979, The island nation of Kiribati becomes independent from the United Kingdom. In 2001, Space Shuttle program: Space Shuttle Atlantis is launched on mission STS-104, carrying the Quest Joint Airlock to the International Space Station. In 2006, The 2006 Lebanon War begins. In 2008, Tony Snow, American journalist, 26th White House Press Secretary (born 1955) passed away. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.