Rocketflip. Today in HistoryToday in History for Monday, June 9thToday in History for Monday, June 9thThe Associated PressHighlights of this day in history: Sen. Joseph McCarthy confronted over his anti-communist tactics; Author Charles Dickens dies; Comedian Richard Pryor suffers burns; Secretariat wins Triple Crown; Electric guitar pioneer Les Paul born. (June 9)[Notes:ANCHOR VOICE] June 9th, 1954: (AP Photos)On Capitol Hill, US Army Counsel Joseph Welch confronts Senator Joseph McCarthy over his tactics in fighting communist subversion during the Cold War.(SOT of Welch)It's the beginning of the end of McCarthy's political influence. Months later, the Senate takes the rare step of condemning him over his methods.1870: (AP Photos)Charles Dickens --- author of novels such as A Christmas Carol, and A Tale of Two Cities --- dies in Gad's Hill, England at age 58.1980: (AP Photos)(SOT of Pryor)Comedian Richard Pryor suffers almost fatal burns when a mixture of "free-base" cocaine explodes at his home in San Fernando Valley, California.1973: (AP Photos)(NAT of Announcer)Secretariat wins the Belmont Stakes in New York --- becoming the first to clinch horse racing's Triple Crown in 25 years.And, 1915: (AP Photos / AP Video)(NAT of "How High the Moon")Les Paul --- the electric guitar pioneer --- is born in Waukesha (WAW-keh-shaw), Wisconsin.Today in History, June 9th --- ___ ___, The Associated Press.(****END****) ANCHOR VOICE:-------------------------Tim MaguireVIDEO PRODUCER <b>...</b>