What Happened This Year 1909

Born in 1909

Li Xiannian

Chinese politician and president
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1992 32 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the third President of the People's Republic of China from 1988 to 1993. Participated in the Chinese Communist Party from a young age and held various leadership positions within the government throughout the 20th century. Was involved in economic reforms and the development of China's socialist market economy, contributing to the modernization efforts in the nation. Played a significant role in the Chinese government post-Cultural Revolution, during which the country underwent substantial changes in policy.

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Don Figlozzi

Illustrator and animator for children's media
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1981 43 years ago — 72 years old

An illustrator and animator contributed significantly to children's television during the mid-20th century. Worked on several iconic projects, including the animated series that captivated young audiences. His artistry combined playful design with engaging storytelling, influencing the style of animation in children's programming.

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Georg Konrad Morgen

German lawyer and judge for Nazi trials
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1982 43 years ago — 73 years old

A lawyer and judge in Nazi Germany, played a significant role in the prosecution of war crimes during the Third Reich. Morgen served as a judge in military courts and investigated cases of corruption and atrocities committed in concentration camps. His notable trials included cases against camp personnel, where he sought to establish accountability for the crimes against humanity that occurred under the regime's directives. After the war, his efforts to uphold judicial integrity within the Nazi legal framework distinguished his career.

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William Sidney

Politician and Governor-General of Australia
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 82 years old

Served as Governor-General of Australia from 1961 to 1965. Held the title of 1st Viscount De L'Isle. Engaged in various public service roles and contributed to the governance of Australia during a significant period. Actively participated in ceremonial duties and represented the monarchy in Australia. Also served in the armed forces during World War II, attaining the rank of Major.

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Henryk Jabłoński

President of Poland and historian
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2003 22 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent Polish historian and politician, held the position of President of Poland from 1972 to 1976. Contributed significantly to the historical scholarship in Poland, focusing on national history. Played a vital role in the political landscape during a transformative period in the country. Actively engaged in the political discourse of the time and influenced policies relating to historical education.

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Ed Herlihy

American journalist and news anchor
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent American journalist recognized for work in television news. Served as a longtime anchor and reporter for NBC News. Covered major events including the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. Contributed to various news programs and initiatives that shaped broadcast journalism during the late 20th century.

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Tsien Tsuen-hsuin

Chinese-American academic scholar
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 106 years old

An academic scholar focused on the study of Chinese literature and cultural history. Contributed significantly to the understanding of Chinese poetry, particularly during the Tang dynasty. Held teaching positions at various institutions and published numerous articles and books. Actively engaged in cross-cultural scholarship and helped bridge understanding between Chinese and Western literary traditions.

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