Fritz Pollard
Football player and coach, first Black coach
Born
1894
131 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1986
39 years ago — 92 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Played as a running back and coach in American football. Served as the first Black head coach in the NFL with the Akron Pros in 1921. Had a notable career at Brown University, where he became a star player. Contributed significantly to the sport both as a player and as a pioneer for Black coaches in football. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005, recognizing contributions to the game.
First Black head coach in the NFL
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Other People Who Died on May 11th
Jozef Murgaš
A Slovak priest, botanist, and painter contributed significantly to the fields of botany and art. Engaged in scientific exploration, focused on plant classification and the study of local flora. Additionally, produced a range of artwork, with several pieces reflecting themes from nature. Combined religious devotion with passion for natural sciences and aesthetics, influencing both disciplines through research and expressive creation.
Continue ReadingNoel Redding
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 ReadingThomas Silverstein
A lifelong criminal, Silverstein's crimes primarily involved violence while incarcerated. Silverstein spent a significant portion of life in solitary confinement due to assaults on prison staff and other inmates. His actions led to multiple convictions, including murder. Silverstein became a well-documented figure within the criminal justice system, with discussions surrounding the treatment of inmates in isolation. Such situations drew attention to broader issues within prison systems, particularly concerning rehabilitation and human rights.
Continue ReadingSpencer Perceval
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 ReadingJuan Gris
Born in 1887, this artist became an influential figure in the Cubist movement. Initially trained as an illustrator, the artist moved to Paris, where the style evolved. The use of geometric shapes and vibrant colors characterized the work. Collaborated with other prominent artists of the time, including Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. The artist's most recognized works include 'Still Life with Checked Tablecloth' and 'Portrait of Picasso', which display a unique synthesis of forms and intricate composition.
Continue ReadingFloyd Patterson
Born in 1935, this professional boxer became the youngest heavyweight champion at the age of 21 after a victory over Archie Moore in 1956. Over a career spanning two decades, won and lost the heavyweight title two times, defending it successfully against numerous challengers. Demonstrated remarkable agility and quickness in the ring, contributing to a unique fighting style that distinguished him in the sport. Renowned for notable matches against Ingemar Johansson, including a celebrated rematch that ended in a second-round knockout to regain the title in 1960. Transitioned into a career as a trainer and advocate for boxing after retirement.
Continue Reading