What Happened This Year 2009
People Who Died in 2009
Mark Rosenzweig
Contributions focused on animal behavior and brain development. Rosenzweig studied the effects of environmental factors on the brain, notably through experiments with rats. Research demonstrated that enriched environments could enhance cognitive functions and brain plasticity. Served as a professor and continued to share findings through numerous publications and educational efforts within the field of psychology.
Continue ReadingYasmin Ahmad
A Malaysian film director who created influential films between the late 1990s and 2000s. Directed notable works such as 'Sepet', 'Gubra', and 'Muallaf'. The films addressed themes of love, cultural identity, and social issues in Malaysian society, often blending comedy and drama. Yasmin Ahmad's storytelling and unique style garnered both national and international attention, highlighting the nuances of Malaysian life.
Continue ReadingHarry Patch
Participated in World War I as a soldier in the British Army and served in the Battle of Passchendaele. After the war, worked as a firefighter and later became a vocal advocate for peace, sharing experiences from the trenches. Lived to the age of 111, becoming the last surviving British soldier from World War I.
Continue ReadingStanley Middleton
An English author wrote several novels, exploring themes of ordinary life and human relationships. His most acclaimed work, 'Holiday', received critical praise and won the Booker Prize in 1974. Middleton's writing career spanned over five decades, contributing significantly to contemporary British literature. He published numerous novels, short stories, and essays, showcasing a distinctive narrative style that examined the complexities of everyday experiences.
Continue ReadingMerce Cunningham
A prominent figure in the development of modern dance, contributed significantly to the art form through innovative choreography. Founded the Merce Cunningham Dance Company in 1953, which toured extensively and influenced generations of dancers and choreographers. Collaborated with various artists, including composer John Cage, creating a unique integration of music and dance. Utilized chance procedures in choreography, which revolutionized traditional approaches to movement. Explored technology in performance, incorporating film and multimedia elements to enhance the dance experience.
Continue ReadingJim Johnson
Played as a professional baseball pitcher, primarily for the Baltimore Orioles and the Atlanta Braves. Achieved a significant milestone by being selected for the MLB All-Star Game in 2012. Known for a strong pitching arm and effective closing abilities during his career. Concluded the career with various teams in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingMohammed Yusuf
Founded a militant group in Nigeria that opposes Western education and practices. The group gained notoriety for violent attacks against government forces and civilians. Yusuf articulated a vision for an Islamic state in Nigeria, leveraging issues like poverty and corruption to garner support. He was arrested in 2009, leading to widespread protests by his followers, culminating in violent confrontations with security forces. Yusuf died in custody shortly after his arrest, prompting the group to escalate its campaigns of violence across Nigeria.
Continue ReadingBobby Robson
A prominent figure in football, this individual began his career as a player with Fulham and later played for West Bromwich Albion. Transitioning to management, he took charge of several clubs, including Ipswich Town, where he achieved notable success by winning the FA Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981. Additionally, this individual managed the England national team from 1982 to 1990, leading the team to the semifinals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup. Later managed clubs like Barcelona and Newcastle United, further solidifying a legacy as a respected figure in football.
Continue ReadingHarry Alan Towers
Born in 1920, he established a successful career in film and television. He produced and wrote several notable thrillers and adaptations, often collaborating with prominent actors and directors. His work gained recognition for its engaging narratives and commercial success. Throughout his career, he produced a variety of films, including adaptations of literary works, and was involved in the production of several television series. Towers's contributions to the industry spanned several decades and included collaborations with major studios and independent productions.
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