What Happened This Year 2009
People Who Died in 2009
Hirotugu Akaike
Contributed significantly to the field of statistics, particularly in model selection theory. Developed the Akaike Information Criterion, which is widely used for model evaluation and selection in various statistical modeling contexts. Worked on time series analysis and established the concept of the 'Akaike model', which allows for more robust statistical inference. Served as a professor and had a notable academic career, influencing generations of statisticians and data scientists.
Continue ReadingBilly Lee Riley
A rockabilly musician, singer-songwriter, and record producer, contributed significantly to the genre during the 1950s. Started a career in music with the iconic label Sun Records, producing hits that blended country and rhythm and blues. Gained recognition for energetic performances and distinctive sound. Riley's songs, including 'Flying Saucers Rock & Roll,' showcased the evolution of rockabilly music. Continued to perform and record into the late 20th century, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingKamila Skolimowska
Achieved significant success in hammer throwing, notably winning a gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Competed for Poland in multiple international competitions, with performances in various European and World Championships. Set personal bests that placed her among the top hammer throwers in history. Her career was tragically cut short by illness, but her achievements in athletics remain recognized.
Continue ReadingSam Etcheverry
Etcheverry played quarterback in the Canadian Football League (CFL) primarily for the Montreal Alouettes. Renowned for his passing ability, he reached the pinnacle of Canadian football by winning the Grey Cup in 1970. Transitioning to coaching after his playing career, he took on various roles, contributing to the development of future players and coaches within the league.
Continue ReadingDave Treen
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.
Continue ReadingErnest Ashworth
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.
Continue ReadingIrving Kristol
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.
Continue ReadingSamuel Victor Perry
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.
Continue ReadingYiannis Moralis
Born in Greece in 1916, this individual achieved recognition as a prominent painter and educator. The artistic journey began with studies at the Athens School of Fine Arts, followed by studies in Paris, which shaped the distinctive style. The painting style combined elements of modernism with traditional Greek influences. In addition to creating artwork, the individual held a significant role as a professor, teaching generations of students in the field of visual arts. Works included notable contributions to the Greek artistic landscape, reflecting themes of mythology and nationality.
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