What Happened This Year 2009

People Who Died in 2009

Chris Connor

American jazz singer with hit records
Born
November 8th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent American jazz singer, she gained recognition in the 1950s. Her career featured a distinctive vocal style that resonated with audiences. Released several albums during the height of her career, achieving acclaim within the jazz genre. Performed at various prestigious venues and festivals across the United States. Collaborated with several notable jazz musicians, enhancing the richness of the jazz scene during her era.

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Jeanne-Claude

Moroccan sculptor and environmental artist
Born
June 13th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Morocco, this artist gained prominence in the 1960s through large-scale environmental works created in collaboration with her partner. The works often involved the wrapping of monumental structures and natural environments, creating dramatic visual transformations. Major projects include 'The Gates' in Central Park, New York City in 2005, and 'Wrapped Coast' in Australia in 1969. These installations garnered international attention and showcased the unique relationship between art and landscape.

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Ammo Baba

Iraqi footballer and manager
Born
November 27th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 75 years old

An accomplished footballer and manager, this individual played as a forward during a successful career that included stints with clubs like Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya. Transitioning to management, he led the Iraqi national team, achieving significant milestones in the Asian football arena. Renowned for strategies that enhanced the team’s performance, this individual became a pivotal figure in Iraqi football history.

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Mercedes Sosa

Argentine singer and activist
Born
July 9th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 74 years old

An influential singer in the Nueva Canción movement, this artist gained recognition for her emotive performances and poignant lyrics addressing social issues. With a powerful voice, she brought traditional folk music to a wider audience. Her career spanned several decades, during which she recorded multiple albums and collaborated with prominent musicians. The artist endured political repression during Argentina's Dirty War, which intensified her commitment to social justice and human rights. She continued to perform internationally, advocating for marginalized communities and preserving Argentine folklore.

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John Maddox

Chemist, physicist, and journalist
Born
November 27th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions included work as a chemist and physicist. Served as the editor of Nature for over twenty years, shaping scientific discourse. Authored several influential books and articles on science and its implications. Advocated for scientific literacy and public understanding of science throughout a career that spanned several decades.

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Samuel Victor Perry

English biochemist and rugby player
Born
July 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2009 16 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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Valentin Varennikov

Russian general and politician
Born
December 15th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2009 16 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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Al Martino

Singer and actor with iconic songs
Born
October 7th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1927, a successful career as a singer and actor spanned several decades. Gained fame with the hit single 'Spanish Eyes' in the 1960s. Acted in the classic film 'The Godfather' asJohnny Fontane. The music career included several chart-topping songs and appearances on television. Continued performing and recording into later years, becoming a recognizable figure in American pop culture.

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Bruno Beger

German anthropologist and ethnologist
Born
April 27th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 98 years old

An anthropologist and ethnologist, contributed to research on racial theories and human populations. Worked in the field of anthropology during the mid-20th century, with a focus on physical anthropology and ethnology. Conducted studies in various regions, including South America and the Arctic, investigating cultural and physical characteristics of indigenous populations. Associated with highly controversial aspects of anthropology during the Nazi regime, leading to ethical debates regarding his methodologies and findings.

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