What Happened This Year 1911
Born in 1911
Wilhelm Friedrich de Gaay Fortman
A jurist and politician who served as the Minister of The Interior in the Netherlands. Involved in multiple legislative processes and reforms, aimed at improving governmental structures and public administration. Played a significant role in the Dutch political landscape during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingPhil Silvers
An American actor and comedian gained prominence through performance in the television series 'The Phil Silvers Show,' which aired from 1955 to 1959. This series showcased a con artist in the U.S. Army and earned wide acclaim for its humor and writing. In addition to television, this actor appeared in numerous films, including 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum' and 'The Horse's Mouth.' His work was characterized by a quick wit and a distinctive style that influenced subsequent generations of comedians.
Continue ReadingCharles Biro
A prominent comic book author and illustrator, this individual significantly contributed to the American comic book industry during the mid-20th century. Best recognized for co-creating the iconic comic book character Dick Tracy, worked with various publishers, including Lev Gleason Publications. Also played a vital role in the development of crime and horror comics, influencing the genre's evolution. Continued to create popular characters and stories throughout a prolific career, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of comics.
Continue ReadingMaxine Sullivan
A prominent jazz singer and actress, remembered for contributions to the genre of jazz and for her performances on stage and screen. Gained acclaim in the 1930s for her unique vocal style and interpretations of classic songs. Participated in various musical productions and showcased talent in the movie 'Cabin in the Sky'. Continued to perform throughout her life, influencing future generations of musicians and vocalists with her work in both music and theater.
Continue ReadingHerta Oberheuser
Served as a physician during World War II, contributing to inhumane medical experiments on concentration camp prisoners. Specializing in dermatology, conducted experiments at the Ravensbrück concentration camp. After the war, faced trial at the Doctors' Trial in Nuremberg, resulting in a conviction for crimes against humanity. Released after serving a portion of the sentence, continued a career in medicine, albeit with limited recognition.
Continue ReadingMax Frisch
A prominent playwright and novelist from Switzerland, contributed significantly to German-language literature in the 20th century. In 1964, produced the influential play 'The Fire Raisers', which explored themes of guilt and responsibility. Another notable work, 'I'm Not Stiller', was a critical reflection on identity and self-perception. Frisch's writing often focused on existentialist themes, merging personal and societal concerns in a unique narrative style. Received multiple awards, including the Georg Büchner Prize in 1958.
Continue ReadingMaureen O'Sullivan
An Irish-American actress gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s. Starred as Jane in the Tarzan film series alongside Johnny Weissmuller, beginning with 'Tarzan the Ape Man' released in 1932. O'Sullivan also appeared in a variety of films including 'The Thin Man' and 'Pride and Prejudice'. Her career spanned several decades, and she worked with notable filmmakers and actors. She returned to the big screen later in her career with appearances in television series, most notably 'Dr. Kildare'.
Continue ReadingLisa Fonssagrives
Born in Sweden, a prominent model emerged during the mid-20th century, gaining recognition for work in high fashion. Collaborated with influential photographers such as Richard Avedon and Irving Penn, achieving iconic status in the fashion world. Played a significant role in the popularization of editorial fashion photography while modeling for Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, contributing to the evolution of modeling as a profession. Later, ventured into the world of fine art and became involved in photography, showcasing original perspectives and techniques.
Continue ReadingBig Joe Turner
An influential figure in the development of rhythm and blues, contributed to the genre with a powerful voice and energetic performances. Gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming a prominent force in the transition from blues to R&B. Recorded numerous songs that became classics, including 'Shake, Rattle and Roll', which gained significant attention in both the black and white music markets. Performed extensively in clubs and festivals, showcasing a vocal style that combined elements of jazz, gospel, and blues. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, recognized for significant contributions to American music.
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