What Happened This Year 1909

People Who Died in 1909

Francisco Tárrega

Spanish guitarist and composer of music
Born
November 21st, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1909 117 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 117 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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Hermann Ebbinghaus

German psychologist and memory researcher
Born
January 24th, 1850 176 years ago
Died
1909 117 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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Nabinchandra Sen

Bangladeshi poet and author of lyric poetry
Born
February 10th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
1909 117 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1847, this individual contributed significantly to Bengali literature and is celebrated for lyric poetry that blended personal and social themes. Active in the late 19th century, works included collections that emphasized emotional expression and cultural identity. Served as an influential figure in the literary circle of Bengal, fostering a renewed interest in poetry during a time of social change. His writings often reflected the nuances of Bengali life and added to the richness of the language and literature.

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Giuseppe Martucci

Italian composer and conductor
Born
January 6th, 1856 170 years ago
Died
1909 117 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 117 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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Miguel Ángel Juárez Celman

Argentinian Politician and Lawyer
Born
September 29th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1909 117 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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Henry Cadwalader Chapman

American physician and naturalist
Born
August 17th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
1909 117 years ago — 64 years old

An American physician and naturalist contributed significantly to the study of natural history and medicine during the 19th century. Specialized in various aspects of zoology and botany, he conducted extensive research and published important works that advanced the understanding of the natural sciences. His writings included key studies about the flora and fauna of North America. Additionally, he served in various medical capacities, linking the fields of natural science and healthcare.

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Vladimir Vidrić

Croatian poet with notable poetry works
Born
April 20th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1909 117 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent Croatian poet and lawyer, contributed significantly to Croatian literature during the early 20th century. Published several influential poetry collections that explored themes of nature, identity, and human emotion. Worked as a public servant, balancing a legal career with literary pursuits. His poetry captured the spirit of the time and is celebrated for its lyrical qualities and depth of emotion.

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