What Happened This Year 1909

People Who Died in 1909

Francisco Tárrega

Spanish guitarist and composer of music
Born
November 21st, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1852, significant contributions were made to classical guitar music through compositions and transcriptions. Developed a unique style that blended Spanish folk traditions with classical music. Tárrega's works are a staple in the guitar repertoire, influencing generations of guitarists. Established a method of teaching that emphasized the importance of expression and technique.

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Ruperto Chapí

Spanish composer; founded authors' society
Born
March 27th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 58 years old

A Spanish composer, contributed significantly to the realm of zarzuela, a Spanish lyrical drama that alternates between spoken and sung scenes. Co-founded the Sociedad General de Autores y Editores, which aimed to protect the rights of authors and composers in Spain. Worked with various musical forms and brought a distinct style to zarzuela that influenced its evolution during the late 19th century. Promoted the importance of intellectual property rights for creators in the music industry and supported the establishment of an organized approach to authorial rights in Spain.

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Alexandre Saint-Yves d'Alveydre

Occultist and author of Sacred Geography
Born
March 26th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 67 years old

A French occultist and spiritualist, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of esotericism and mysticism. Focused on the concept of sacred geography, emphasized the connections between spirituality and the physical world. Authored several works, most notably "Mission de l'Inde en Europe," which delved into the relationship between Eastern and Western consciousness. Influenced various occult traditions and teachings through writings and public speaking. His ideas aimed to unify religions and philosophies, advocating for a greater understanding of metaphysical principles.

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Maurice Perrault

Canadian architect and Longueuil mayor
Born
June 12th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 52 years old

Involved in architecture and civil engineering, held the position of 15th Mayor of Longueuil, contributing to local governance and urban planning. Engaged in various infrastructure projects that shaped the development of the area during the late 19th century. Also participated in provincial politics, influencing policies that affected municipal affairs. The career spanned several decades of civic service.

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Hermann Ebbinghaus

German psychologist and memory researcher
Born
January 24th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to psychology, particularly in the study of memory and learning. Developed the forgetting curve and the spacing effect, which describe how information is retained and lost over time. Conducted pioneering research using non-words to understand memory processes. Ebbinghaus's work laid the groundwork for future research in cognitive psychology.

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Miguel Ángel Juárez Celman

Argentinian Politician and Lawyer
Born
September 29th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 65 years old

An Argentinian lawyer and politician served as the 10th President of Argentina from 1886 to 1890. Administration focused on economic modernization and infrastructure development. Juárez Celman faced economic challenges and political opposition during his presidency, which led to his resignation. After leaving office, continued involvement in public life and politics, contributing to various national discussions and events.

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Ludvig Schytte

Danish pianist and composer of piano works
Born
April 28th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 61 years old

Born in Denmark, a notable pianist, composer, and educator in the late 19th to early 20th century. Schytte studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Music and was a student of Niels Gade. He made significant contributions to piano literature, composing numerous pieces that are performed in educational and concert settings. His works often reflect the Romantic style, emphasizing lyrical melodies and technical expression. In addition to composition, he focused on teaching and published several piano method books aimed at enhancing the skills of young pianists. Schytte's influence extended through his students and his published works, which remain relevant in piano pedagogy.

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Giuseppe Martucci

Italian composer and conductor
Born
January 6th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 53 years old

Born in Italy, a distinguished pianist, composer, and conductor emerged in the late 19th century. Educated at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan, gained recognition for significant contributions to Italian music. Held the position of conductor at prominent theaters, interpreting works of leading composers. Composed symphonic and chamber music, with a distinct style blending Romantic and Italian traditions. Also known for reviving interest in earlier classical works. Served as a pivotal figure in Italian culture during a period of musical transition.

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Joshua Slocum

Sailor and author of 'Sailing Alone'
Born
February 20th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 65 years old

A Canadian sailor and adventurer became the first person to sail solo around the world, completing the journey from 1895 to 1898. This voyage was documented in the book 'Sailing Alone Around the World', which detailed the experiences and challenges faced during the trip. The book received critical acclaim and inspired future generations of sailors and adventurers. Throughout the journey, various ports were visited, including those in Europe, Australia, and the Americas, showcasing an exceptional feat of navigation and seamanship. The contributions to sailing literature and the adventure genre established a lasting legacy within maritime history.

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