June 26

Thursday 26, 1997:

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone in the U.S.), the first book in J.K. Rowling's hugely popular Harry Potter series, is published.

Sunday 26, 1960:

Former British Protectorate of Somaliland British Somaliland gains its independence

Saturday 26, 1948:

The Western allies start an airlift to Berlin after the Soviet Union has blockaded West Berlin.

Tuesday 26, 1934:

Initial flight of the Focke-Wulf Fw 61, the first practical helicopter.

Tuesday 26, 1483:

Richard III becomes king of England.