What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Dave Treen

American politician, 51st Governor of Louisiana
Born
July 16th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 51st Governor of Louisiana from 1980 to 1984. Advocated for fiscal conservatism and education reform during the tenure. Prior to governorship, practiced law and held positions in the Louisiana House of Representatives. Played a significant role in Republican politics within Louisiana, contributing to the party's growth in the state during the late 20th century.

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Ernest Ashworth

American singer-songwriter and musician
Born
December 15th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 81 years old

An influential figure in country music, this singer-songwriter began his career in the 1950s and gained fame with his hit singles. The song "Talk Back Trem blin' Lips" reached the top of the country charts in 1963. This artist also contributed to the genre as a songwriter and recording artist, solidifying a legacy in the country music scene.

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Irving Kristol

Journalist and founder of The National Interest
Born
January 22nd, 1920 106 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American journalist, author, and academic, contributed significantly to political thought and policy discussion through various writings and publications. Founded The National Interest, a political magazine, which provided analysis and commentary on foreign policy and national security issues. Contributed to the formation of neoconservative thought in the United States, influencing political discourse during the late 20th century. Also held editorial roles in various publications, shaping the intellectual landscape of American conservatism.

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Samuel Victor Perry

English biochemist and rugby player
Born
July 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 91 years old

This individual contributed to biochemistry, focusing on the study of enzyme activity and metabolic processes. Additionally, rugby union played a significant role in athletic pursuits, where competing with the England national rugby team occurred during the late 1940s. Throughout the career in sports, attended numerous international matches, contributing to the team's efforts in the post-war international rugby scene.

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Frank Costigan

Australian lawyer and politician, prominent figure
Born
January 14th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent Australian lawyer and politician practiced law and served in various political roles. Played a significant part in government and contributed to legal reforms. Held membership in the Australian Senate, representing the Australian Labor Party. Instrumental in advancing issues of public concern through legislative processes.

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Paula Hawkins

American politician, U.S. Senator
Born
January 24th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 82 years old

Paula Hawkins served as a U.S. Senator from Florida from 1977 to 1989. She was the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Florida. Prior to her Senate service, Hawkins was involved in Florida state politics and served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives. During her tenure in the Senate, she focused on issues such as women's rights, health care, and environmental protection. After leaving the Senate, she remained active in politics and public service.

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Valentin Varennikov

Russian general and politician
Born
December 15th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1923, a general in the Soviet Army and a significant political figure in Russia. Played a prominent role during the Soviet-Afghan War and served as a Deputy of the State Duma. Participated in military operations and leadership missions that shaped moments in Russian military history. Worked within various military and political structures, impacting strategic decisions.

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Richard T. Whitcomb

Aeronautical engineer; supercritical wings
Born
February 21st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 88 years old

Contributions to aeronautical engineering included the development of the supercritical wing design, which improved the aerodynamic efficiency of aircraft at transonic speeds. Work in the 1950s at Langley Research Center led to significant advancements in flight performance and stability. Whitcomb's research influenced the design of modern airliners and contributed to the understanding of airflow over wings.

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Tommy Henrich

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
February 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 96 years old

Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder, primarily for the New York Yankees from 1937 to 1942 and again from 1946 to 1950. Participated in the Yankees' success during the late 1930s and through the 1940s, contributing to several pennant wins and four World Series championships. Served as a sportscaster following retirement from playing, providing commentary and analysis on baseball games.

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