Fritz Pollard

Football player and coach, first Black coach

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

Odd Hassel

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry
Born
May 17th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1981 44 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of molecular structures, using X-ray crystallography. Developed methods for investigating the symmetry and structure of molecular compounds. His work led to advancements in understanding chemical bonding and molecular conformation. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1979 for achievements in this area.

Continue Reading

Juliette Récamier

French businesswoman and socialite
Born
December 4th, 1777 247 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1849 176 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in early 19th century France, played a significant role in the social and cultural life of Paris. Récamier hosted a renowned salon that attracted various intellectuals, artists, and political figures, becoming a center of progressive thought. Engaged in business endeavors, she managed her family's financial affairs and established a successful private bank. Engaged in philanthropy, she supported several charitable causes during her lifetime.

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

Gilbert Jessop

English cricketer and soldier
Born
May 19th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1955 70 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent cricketer and soldier, played for Gloucestershire from 1894 to 1913. Achieved a reputation as a hard-hitting batsman and an exceptional fielder. Represented England in international matches, contributing significantly to the team's efforts during the early 1900s. Served in World War I, where military service took precedence over cricketing pursuits.

Continue Reading

Frederick Innes

Scottish-Australian politician and Premier
Born
August 11th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1882 143 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1816, a Scottish-Australian politician who served as the 9th Premier of Tasmania. Innes held office during a period marked by economic challenges and governance restructuring. His leadership aimed to address issues affecting the colony and foster community development. Innes actively participated in legislative reforms, contributing to the political landscape of Tasmania during the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Tom Cribb

English heavyweight boxing champion
Born
1781 244 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1848 177 years ago — 67 years old

Competed in the early 19th century as a heavyweight boxer. Gained prominence in the sport through numerous victories, including the prestigious title match in 1810 against Tom Molyneaux. Retired from boxing with an impressive record and became a notable figure in the development of boxing regulations and practices. Opened a public house in London after retirement, which acted as a gathering spot for boxing enthusiasts.

Continue Reading