Today in News History

On June 24, several notable moments in the history of News stand out. In 1314, First War of Scottish Independence: The Battle of Bannockburn concludes with a decisive victory by Scottish forces led by Robert the Bruce. In 1497, John Cabot lands in North America at Newfoundland leading the first European exploration of the region since the Vikings. In 1604, Samuel de Champlain encounters the mouth of the Saint John River, site of Reversing Falls and the present-day city of Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. In 1813, Battle of Beaver Dams: A British and Indian combined force defeats the United States Army. In 1821, Battle of Carabobo: Decisive battle in the war of independence of Venezuela from Spain. In 1842, Ambrose Bierce, American short story writer, essayist, and journalist (died 1914) was born. In 1856, Henry Chapman Mercer, American archaeologist and author (died 1930) was born. In 1922, The American Professional Football Association is renamed the National Football League. In 1942, Colin Groves, Australian academician and educator (died 2017) was born. In 1973, The UpStairs Lounge arson attack takes place at a gay bar located on the second floor of the three-story building at 141 Chartres Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, US. Thirty-two people die as a result of fire or smoke inhalation. Together, these milestones provide historical context for today's news news and ongoing narratives.