Douglas Adams

English author of The Hitchhiker's Guide

Douglas Adams - English author of The Hitchhiker's Guide
Born

March 11th, 1952
73 years ago

Died

May 11th, 2001
24 years ago — 49 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English author and playwright contributed significantly to science fiction literature. The most notable work is 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,' originally a radio series and later adapted into books, television, and film. The series gained a large following and is recognized for its wit and satirical take on science fiction and modern society. Adams also wrote 'Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency,' which showcased his humor and inventive storytelling. In addition to writing, he worked as a script editor and contributed to several projects, including the television series 'Doctor Who.' Adams passed away in 2001.

Wrote The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

Created Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency

Other People Born on March 11th

Terrence Howard

Actor in 'Empire' and 'Hustle & Flow'
Born
March 11th, 1969 56 years ago

Born in 1969, an American actor and producer became recognized for roles in film and television. Featured in the movie 'Hustle & Flow', which earned an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Gained further prominence as Lucious Lyon in the television series 'Empire', which garnered significant critical acclaim and numerous award nominations. Also appeared in 'Iron Man' as James Rhodes. Earlier in career, acted in 'Crash' and 'Dead Presidents', contributing to the landscape of contemporary cinema.

Continue Reading

Astor Piazzolla

Argentine tango composer and bandoneon player
Born
March 11th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1992 33 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1921, a prominent composer and bandoneon player revolutionized traditional tango music by incorporating elements of jazz and classical music. Defined nuevo tango by blending improvisation with complex harmonies. Created numerous compositions that expanded the boundaries of tango, bringing it to concert stages around the world. Contributed significantly to music through innovative arrangements and collaborations.

Continue Reading

Nigel Lawson

Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
March 11th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 91 years old

Served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1983 to 1989 under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, overseeing significant economic reforms in the UK. Played a key role in implementing policies that included tax reductions and deregulation of the economy. Resigned from the position amid rising economic challenges, including high inflation and the looming economic crisis of the early 1990s. After his political career, became an influential journalist and authored several books on economics and politics.

Continue Reading

Shane Richie

English actor and singer known for EastEnders
Born
March 11th, 1964 61 years ago

Born in 1964, an English actor and singer gained prominence through work in television and music. Achieved fame with the role of Alfie Moon in the long-running soap opera 'EastEnders,' becoming a household name in the UK. Additionally, involved in various stage productions, showcasing talent in musical theatre. Engaged in music and released multiple albums, further enhancing presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Malcolm Campbell

Race car driver and world speed record holder
Born
March 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1948 76 years ago — 63 years old

Acclaimed as a race car driver, this individual set multiple world speed records in the early 20th century. Competed primarily on land and achieved a notable milestone by becoming the first person to surpass the 300 mph mark in a car. The land speed records were established using vehicles such as the Blue Bird and the latest models from the Auto Union. The pursuit of speed led to significant advancements in automotive engineering during this era.

Continue Reading

Benjamin Tupper

American general during Revolutionary War
Born
March 11th, 1738 287 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1792 233 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Tupper played a significant role in various military campaigns, particularly in the Siege of Boston and the Saratoga Campaign. After the war, he was active in the administration of military affairs and contributed to the establishment of veterans' support systems. Tupper also participated in local governance and land surveying in Massachusetts, engaging in community and political efforts to aid veterans and promote local development.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 11th

Spencer Perceval

Prime Minister, led during early 1800s
Born
November 1st, 1762 263 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1812 213 years ago — 49 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1809 until 1812. Perceval was a member of the Tory party and played a significant role in the government during the Napoleonic Wars. Focused on economic issues and strengthening the British military. Assassinated in 1812, marking the first and only British Prime Minister to be assassinated. His leadership style was characterized by a commitment to managing the nation through a challenging period of war and political strife.

Continue Reading

James Colosimo

Italian-American mob boss at the Chicago Outfit
Born
February 16th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1920 105 years ago — 42 years old

An Italian-American mob boss became a significant figure in organized crime during the early 20th century. Colosimo immigrated to the United States and established himself as a key player in Chicago's underworld. His activities included prostitution, gambling, and mob operations. Colosimo's leadership and connections helped shape the Chicago Outfit, a major crime syndicate. His tenure was marked by expansion and influence in various illegal enterprises until his assassination in 1920.

Continue Reading

Sardarilal Mathradas Nanda

Indian admiral and military leader
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 94 years old

Served as an admiral in the Indian Navy and played a significant role in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Contributed to various naval operations and advancements within the Indian Maritime. Held the position of Chief of the Naval Staff and served with distinction, overseeing developments in the naval forces. Participated in efforts to strengthen the naval capabilities of India during critical periods.

Continue Reading

Charles Kingston

Australian politician, 20th Premier
Born
October 22nd, 1850 175 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1908 117 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the 20th Premier of South Australia from 1893 to 1899. Kingston played a significant role in the establishment of the state's public education system and advocated for various social reforms, including women's suffrage and labor rights. Kingston also contributed to the creation of the Australian Constitution and was involved in the Federation movement, helping to unite the Australian colonies into a single nation.

Continue Reading

Noel Redding

English singer-songwriter and bassist
Born
December 25th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2003 22 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in rock music, contributed as a bassist and songwriter. Gained recognition as a member of The Jimi Hendrix Experience, one of the quintessential rock bands of the 1960s. Participated in the creation of iconic albums such as 'Are You Experienced' and 'Axis: Bold as Love'. Later formed the band Fat Mattress, which added to the musical landscape of the era. Continued to perform and record music throughout the following decades, maintaining influence in the British rock scene.

Continue Reading

Robert Traylor

Basketball Player and NBA Draft Pick
Born
February 1st, 1977 48 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2011 14 years ago — 34 years old

An American basketball player, played college basketball for the University of Michigan. In 1998, selected 6th overall in the NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. Played professionally in various leagues, including the NBA, where he had stints with the Mavericks and the New Orleans Hornets. Also played internationally, contributing to teams in Spain and other countries. Traylor's college career included helping the Wolverines to a Final Four appearance.

Continue Reading