What Happened This Year 1909

People Who Died in 1909

Innokenty Annensky

Russian poet and literary critic
Born
September 1st, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1855, this figure became a prominent Russian poet and critic, contributing significantly to the Silver Age of Russian poetry. Key literary involvement included participation in the Acmeist movement, which emphasized clarity and precision in poetry. The individual published several collections, with 'The Silver Age' being notable. Engagement with various literary circles and critique of contemporary works shaped the literary landscape during this period. Teaching at educational institutions further influenced poetry and criticism in Russia.

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Vladimir Vidrić

Croatian poet with notable poetry works
Born
April 20th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1909 116 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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Detlev von Liliencron

German poet and author of lyrical works
Born
June 3rd, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 65 years old

A German poet and author contributed significantly to the literary landscape of the late 19th century. His poetry reflected the themes of nature and human experience, often infused with emotive and lyrical qualities. Associated with the 'Jungen' literary movement, some works explored the interplay of personal sentiment and broader existential themes. Published collections, including 'Gedichte', showcased his romantic style and deep reverence for the natural world. His writing encompassed various forms and subject matters, establishing a reputation within German literature. The poet's works have been cited by subsequent generations as a profound influence in shaping German literary expression.

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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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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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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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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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