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This Happened

This Happened—December 29: London Burning

Caused by Nazi bombing raids which set off a series of fires, the Second Great Fire threatened to destroy London. It was ultimately contained, symbolized by the saving of the famed St. Paul's Cathedral.

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How did the Second Great Fire of London start?

On the evening of December 29, 1940, during World War II, a German bomb raid triggered fires that spread across the city of London. High-explosive and incendiary bombs started massive fires throughout the city.

How many people died in the Second Great Fire of London?

The attack caused 160 civilian deaths, as well as the deaths of 14 firemen. It’s also estimated that about five million books were lost in the fires, which badly affected Ave Maria Lane and Paternoster Row, an area known as the center of the London publishing and book trade.

How did St. Paul Cathedral survive London blitz.

During World War II, St. Paul’s Cathedral became an inspiration to the British nation. Germany's Luftwaffe air force attempted to bomb Britain into submission, but St. Paul’s miraculously escaped major damage, even as historic buildings in the same area were destroyed. Images of St. Paul’s framed by smoke and fire became a symbol of Britain’s indomitable spirit. Civilian defense brigades, including the St. Paul’s Fire Watch, protected the church.

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eyes on the U.S.

Murdoch's Resignation Adds To Biden Good Luck With The Media — A Repeat Of FDR?

Robert Murdoch's resignation from Fox News Corp. so soon before the next U.S. presidential elections begs the question of how directly media coverage has impacted Joe Biden as a figure, and what this new shift in power will mean for the current President.

Close up photograph of a opy of The Independent features Rupert Murdoch striking a pensive countenance as his 'News of the World' tabloid newspaper announced its last edition will run

July 7, 2011 - London, England: A copy of The Independent features Rupert Murdoch striking a pensive countenance as his 'News of the World' tabloid newspaper announced its last edition will run July 11, 2011 amid a torrid scandal involving phone hacking.

Mark Makela/ZUMA
Michael J. Socolow

Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 46th president of the United States of America on Jan. 20, 2021.

Imagine if someone could go back in time and inform him and his communications team that a few pivotal changes in the media would occur during his first three years in office.

There’s the latest news that Rubert Murdoch, 92, stepped down as the chairperson of Fox Corp. and News Corp. on Sept. 21, 2023. Since the 1980s, Murdoch, who will be replaced by his son Lachlan, has been the most powerful right-wing media executivein the U.S.

While it’s not clear whether Fox will be any tamer under Lachlan, Murdoch’s departure is likely good news for Biden, who reportedly despises the media baron.

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