Malcolm Campbell

Race car driver and world speed record holder

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

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

England

Links & References

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.

First person to exceed 300 mph in a vehicle

Set a world speed record of 301.129 mph in 1933

Achieved multiple land speed records in the 1920s and 1930s

Other People Born on March 11th

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

Leroy Jenkins

Violinist and composer of avant-garde music
Born
March 11th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 75 years old

A pioneering figure in the world of avant-garde music, contributed significantly to the development of free jazz and contemporary classical styles. Studied at the University of Wisconsin and later collaborated with notable musicians within the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians. Jenkins was a member of the renowned string quartet, the Black Artists Group, which played a crucial role in the St. Louis arts scene during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Composed a variety of works that fused improvisation with classical forms, gaining recognition for both performances and original compositions.

Continue Reading

Marius Petipa

French-Russian dancer and choreographer
Born
March 11th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1910 115 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in ballet, contributed significantly to the development of classical ballet in Russia. Originally trained in France, moved to Russia where he became a principal dancer and later a choreographer. Served for many years at the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg. Choreographed several important ballets that remain popular and influential today.

Continue Reading

Jessie Matthews

English actress and singer from the 1920s
Born
March 11th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1981 44 years ago — 74 years old

An English actress, singer, and dancer, she gained prominence during the 1920s and 1930s. Known for her performances in musical films, her career spanned stage and screen. Appeared in notable works such as 'Evergreen' and 'The Good Companions'. Excelled in both comedy and musical genres, showcasing considerable talent through her singing and dancing abilities.

Continue Reading

Jerry Zucker

Director of 'Airplane!' and 'The Naked Gun'
Born
March 11th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 58 years old

A director, producer, and screenwriter, significant contributions include co-directing the comedy 'Airplane!' and directing 'The Naked Gun' series. Collaborated with David Zucker and Jim Abrahams to create a brand of absurdist humor. Founded Zucker Productions and produced various works in television and film. Later projects included directing the romantic comedy 'Ghost,' which received critical acclaim and box office success.

Continue Reading

James H. Douglas Jr.

American lawyer and Deputy Secretary of Defense
Born
March 11th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a lawyer and politician, holding significant positions in government. Functioned as the United States Deputy Secretary of Defense during the early 1960s, where responsibilities included overseeing military operations and defense policy. Engaged in influential decisions during a critical period of the Cold War, contributing to national security strategies. Was involved in various legal and governmental endeavors both prior to and after tenure in the Department of Defense.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 31st

Henry Gerber

LGBTQ+ rights activist, Society for Human Rights founder
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1972 52 years ago — 80 years old

A German-American activist contributed significantly to the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Founded the Society for Human Rights in 1924, the first known gay rights organization in the United States. The organization worked to promote the rights of gay men and women in a time of widespread discrimination. Gerber faced many challenges, including legal battles and societal backlash. Despite these obstacles, he remained dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights throughout his life. After years of activism, Gerber continued efforts until his passing in 1972.

Continue Reading

Li Shiji

Chinese general during the Tang dynasty
Died
December 31st, 669 1355 years ago — None years old

A prominent general during the Tang dynasty, played a critical role in the military campaigns that expanded the Chinese territory. Contributed significantly to the consolidation of Tang rule, particularly in dealing with border conflicts and internal rebellions. Renowned for both military strategy and governance, served under the reign of several emperors. His leadership helped establish the foundations for a stable and prosperous empire, facilitating trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road.

Continue Reading

Billie Dove

American actress in silent films
Born
May 14th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1997 27 years ago — 94 years old

Achieved prominence as a silent film actress in the early 20th century, starring in a number of successful films. Gained fame for performances in 'The Eternal City' (1923) and 'New Toys' (1925). Transitioned to sound films but largely retired from acting in the 1930s. Additionally, pursued a career in singing and appeared in several stage productions.

Continue Reading

Jean-Pierre Duport

French cellist and composer
Born
1741 284 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1818 206 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent cellist and composer, contributions centered around the development of the cello repertoire. Played a significant role in the evolution of cello technique during the late 18th century. Served as a soloist at the court of Frederick the Great of Prussia. Contributed to the rise of string quartet music in Europe, collaborating with notable musicians of the era.

Continue Reading

Irina Korschunow

German author and screenwriter
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2013 11 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1925, contributions to literature included novels, children's books, and screenplays. Korschunow's work often explored themes of identity, culture, and the human experience. Some of the most notable works include 'Der Nussknacker' and various adaptations for television. In addition to writing, also engaged in translation and mentoring younger authors. Korschunow's career spanned several decades, and her writings have been recognized within literary circles in Germany.

Continue Reading

John Moisant

Pioneer aviator and aeronautical engineer
Born
April 25th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1910 114 years ago — 42 years old

An early aviation pioneer and engineer. Built and flew several innovative aircraft. First pilot to perform a transcontinental flight in the U.S. Established aviation benchmarks with his contributions to flight technology and safety.

Continue Reading