What Happened This Year 1909

People Who Died in 1909

Afonso Pena

Brazilian politician, 6th President
Born
November 30th, 1847 177 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 6th President of Brazil from 1906 until 1909. Before presidency, worked as a lawyer and held the position of Minister of War. Focused on infrastructure development and education reform during the presidency. Contributed to the establishment of the country's constitution and the promotion of national progress.

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Catulle Mendès

French poet and playwright
Born
May 22nd, 1841 183 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1841, this literary figure contributed significantly to French literature as a poet, author, and playwright. He played a prominent role in the Symbolist movement, favoring the use of symbols and imagery in his work. His poetry often explored themes of love and beauty, while his plays showcased innovative narrative styles and character development. Several of his works were well-received during his lifetime and continue to be studied for their artistic merit.

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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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Maurice Perrault

Canadian architect and Longueuil mayor
Born
June 12th, 1857 167 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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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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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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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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Grand Duke Michael Nikolaevich of Russia

Royalty and Russian Army General
Born
October 25th, 1832 192 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1832, an important figure in the Russian Empire, held the title of Grand Duke. Served as a general in the Russian Army during the Russo-Turkish War. Played a crucial role in various military campaigns and held several significant commands. Served as the governor of the Grand Duchy of Finland. Contributed to the administrative and military organization during a turbulent time in Russia's history. Died in 1909.

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