What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Olga San Juan

American actress and dancer in Broadway
Born
March 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

An actress and dancer, contributed significantly to Broadway productions during the mid-20th century. Gained acclaim for performances in productions like 'South Pacific' and 'The King and I'. Demonstrated exceptional talent and versatility in both dance and acting, culminating in a successful stage career.

Continue Reading

Augusto Boal

Theatre director and playwright
Born
March 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 78 years old

A theatre director, writer, and politician, contributed significantly to the world of theatre through the development of the Theatre of the Oppressed. This influential methodology aimed to promote social and political change by engaging audiences in active participation. Established techniques such as Forum Theatre and Image Theatre, which encouraged the exploration of social issues through performance. Engaged in political work and activism, serving in various capacities, including as a city council member in Rio de Janeiro. Advocated for the use of theatre as a tool for social transformation in Brazil and worldwide.

Continue Reading

Frank Coghlan Jr.

American actor and pilot
Born
March 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 93 years old

An American actor and pilot, contributions included roles in numerous films during the 1920s and 1930s. Achieved prominence as a child actor in 'The Phantom of the Opera' and 'Little Lord Fauntleroy'. Transitioned to a successful aviation career after leaving acting, obtaining his pilot's license and serving in the military during World War II as a pilot. Continued involvement in aviation post-war, contributing to various aviation endeavors.

Continue Reading

José Aboulker

Algerian surgeon and political activist
Born
March 5th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1920, a surgeon engaged in the Algerian War of Independence. Active in the fight against French colonial rule, advocated for Algerian independence and health reforms. Played a significant role in providing medical assistance to wounded Algerian fighters. Contributed to the establishment of an independent healthcare system post-independence. Held various medical and political positions after the war, focusing on public health and social issues.

Continue Reading

Paul Samuelson

Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 94 years old

An American economist and academic, contributed significantly to economic theory and analysis. Developed the neoclassical synthesis, integrating key ideas from various schools of economic thought. Authored the influential textbook "Economics," which became a standard in the field for decades. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1970 for his contributions to the development of modern economic theory.

Continue Reading

Helen Levitt

American photographer and cinematographer
Born
August 31st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 96 years old

A significant figure in photography and cinematography, contributed extensively to the documentation of urban life. Focused on capturing street scenes in New York City, portraying everyday moments with a unique visual style. Worked on various films, emphasizing the beauty and complexity of ordinary surroundings. Renowned for the ability to convey compelling narratives through imagery. The work exemplified depth of observation and emotional resonance.

Continue Reading

Bronisław Żurakowski

Pilot and engineer of Polish aviation
Born
June 26th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 98 years old

Born in 1911, a notable Polish pilot and engineer contributed significantly to the field of aviation through various aircraft designs and test flights. Worked primarily with the Polish Air Force and later engaged with experimental aircraft projects. Participated in the development of the TS-11 Iskra jet trainer, which became an important aircraft in the training of pilots in Poland. Emigrated to Canada and continued his work in aviation engineering, influencing aircraft technology and safety protocols. Made contributions to several aviation organizations and remained active in the aviation community until his later years.

Continue Reading

Olga Dahl

Genealogist and author of genealogy books
Born
September 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Sweden in 1917, a prominent genealogist who significantly contributed to genealogy through research and writing. Authored several influential books on Swedish ancestry and family history, helping many individuals trace their lineage. Involved in various genealogical societies, providing guidance and expertise in historical records and research methods. Her work addressed the importance of preserving historical documents and understanding family histories within a broader social context.

Continue Reading

Lonny Frey

Baseball player and soldier
Born
August 23rd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 99 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily as a second baseman and shortstop from 1933 to 1947. His career included time with the Cincinnati Reds and New York Giants. Frey served in the United States Army during World War II, contributing to the war effort while maintaining his baseball career before and after military service. He participated in the 1940 All-Star Game, showcasing his skills on a national stage.

Continue Reading