What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Ted Kennedy

American politician and legislator
Born
February 22nd, 1932 93 years ago
Died
August 25th, 2009 15 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent American legislator, served as a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts from 1962 to 2009. Played a key role in numerous significant pieces of legislation, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Engaged in various political battles and was a key figure in the Democratic Party for several decades, advocating for healthcare, education, and civil rights. Participated in numerous presidential campaigns and was a central figure in discussions regarding national policy.

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Dominick Dunne

Journalist and author of bestsellers
Born
October 29th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2009 15 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent journalist and author, contributed to various publications including Vanity Fair. Explored high-profile criminal cases and social issues through a critical lens. Wrote several best-selling novels, drawing from personal experiences and societal themes. Achieved recognition in both journalism and literature, becoming a significant voice in discussing crime and justice in American culture.

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Sergey Mikhalkov

Russian author and playwright of children's books
Born
March 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2009 15 years ago — 96 years old

An influential Russian author and playwright, contributed significantly to children's literature and poetry. Mikhalkov's works include 'Genrikh's Adventures' and 'The Circus'. He also wrote the lyrics for the national anthem of the Soviet Union and later the Russian Federation. His career spanned several decades, engaging with various themes in literature and theater. In addition to writing for children, he wrote plays and screenplays that were staged across the Soviet Union.

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Adam Goldstein

DJ and music producer of electronic dance
Born
March 30th, 1973 51 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2009 15 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent figure in the electronic dance music scene, this keyboard player, DJ, and producer gained recognition for influential contributions to the genre. Gained popularity as DJ AM, performing at numerous high-profile events and venues, thereby shaping the culture of nightlife and dance music. Collaborated with acclaimed artists, producing tracks that blended various music styles and garnered mainstream success. Established a reputation for his innovative mixing techniques and engaging live performances, further enhancing the popularity of electronic music.

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Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy

Indian Politician and Chief Minister
Born
July 8th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2009 15 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the 14th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 2004 until 2009. Implemented several welfare programs focusing on rural development and healthcare. Played a pivotal role in the introduction of the 'Rajiv Yuva Kiranalu' scheme aimed at providing employment to the youth of the state. Died in a helicopter crash in 2009, leading to significant public mourning and tributes across the region.

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Aage Bohr

Danish physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 19th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2009 15 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1922, a prominent physicist contributed to the understanding of nuclear structure and reactions. Played a significant role in developing the collective model of nuclear structure. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen and directed the Niels Bohr Institute. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1975 for advancements in theoretical nuclear physics.

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Mike Bongiorno

Television host and game show pioneer
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2009 15 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent television host in Italy, recognized for contributions to the broadcasting industry. Started a career in the early years of Italian television, hosting a variety of quiz and game shows that became staples of Italian entertainment. Gained fame for hosting programs such as 'Lascia o Raddoppia?' and 'Il Rischiatutto'. Helped popularize the quiz show format in Italy, becoming a household name over decades of television presence. Received numerous awards, including the Telegatto award multiple times, affirming a significant role in shaping Italian TV culture.

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Pierre Cossette

Television producer and manager
Born
December 15th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2009 15 years ago — 85 years old

A television producer and manager played a significant role in the entertainment industry. He produced the first televised Academy Awards in 1953, shaping the format of awards shows. Over the years, he worked on various productions, including numerous Grammy Awards broadcasts. His production company became known for developing programs that showcased talent in music and entertainment. His contributions helped to standardize live broadcasts of awards presentations and events.

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Jim Carroll

American poet, author, musician, and memoirist
Born
August 1st, 1949 75 years ago
Died
September 11th, 2009 15 years ago — 60 years old

A poet, author, and musician, this figure gained recognition in the late 1970s. The work 'The Basketball Diaries' chronicled teenage life and addiction in New York City, becoming a cult classic. Various poetry collections, including 'Living at the Movies,' reflected personal struggles and societal observations. The musical career included involvement with the band Jim Carroll Band, which achieved success with the hit single 'People Who Died' in the 1980s. This work encapsulated themes of loss and memory, resonating with listeners across generations.

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