What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Mark Rosenzweig

Psychologist and academic researcher
Born
September 12th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2009 15 years ago — 86 years old

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 Reading

Stanley Middleton

English author and Booker Prize winner
Born
August 1st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2009 15 years ago — 89 years old

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 Reading

Yasmin Ahmad

Film Director - Sepet
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2009 15 years ago — 51 years old

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 Reading

Harry Patch

English soldier and firefighter
Born
June 17th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2009 15 years ago — 111 years old

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 Reading

Merce Cunningham

Choreographer and dancer, postmodern dance
Born
April 16th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2009 15 years ago — 90 years old

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 Reading

Jim Johnson

American baseball player, All-Star pitcher
Born
June 27th, 1983 41 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2009 15 years ago — 26 years old

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 Reading

Mohammed Yusuf

Nigerian militant leader, Boko Haram founder
Born
1970 55 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2009 15 years ago — 39 years old

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 Reading

Bobby Robson

Football manager and England national coach
Born
February 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2009 15 years ago — 76 years old

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 Reading

Harry Alan Towers

Screenwriter and producer of thrillers
Born
October 19th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2009 15 years ago — 88 years old

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.

Continue Reading