What Happened This Year 1911
Born in 1911
Kenneth Patchen
Born in 1911, a significant figure in American literature and art, worked as both a poet and a painter. Developed a unique style that blended personal emotions with social commentary. Published numerous poetry collections including 'The Journal of Albion Moonlight' and 'The Teeth of the Lion'. Engaged with the Beats and influenced the counterculture of the 1960s. Innovated in mixed media, creating visual poetry that combined text and art.
Continue ReadingJerzy Iwanow-Szajnowicz
Greek-Polish athlete specialized in swimming and water polo. Competed in the 1936 Summer Olympics representing Poland in swimming events. Played for the Polish national water polo team, contributing to its development during the late 1930s. Engaged in training future athletes and promoted aquatic sports in Poland. His career was cut short due to the circumstances of World War II, resulting in his passing in 1943.
Continue ReadingSpike Jones
A bandleader and musical comedian, achieved fame in the 1940s and 1950s through innovative and humorous renditions of popular songs. His orchestra, Spike Jones and His City Slickers, became renowned for combining music with comedic elements, often using unconventional instruments and sound effects. The band’s unique style led to numerous recordings and performances on radio and television, solidifying a legacy in American entertainment.
Continue ReadingHans von Ohain
A German-American physicist and engineer primarily associated with the development of the turbojet engine. Contributions to aviation technology included designing the world's first operational turbojet engine, which powered the Heinkel He 178, the first jet-powered aircraft to fly successfully in 1939. After World War II, immigration to the United States led to further research and development in aerospace technology, including work for major corporations such as North American Aviation and NASA. He held more than 60 patents in the field of propulsion systems.
Continue ReadingStan Kenton
A significant figure in the world of jazz, a pianist and composer, contributed to the development of the big band sound in the 1940s and 1950s. Established the Stan Kenton Orchestra, known for innovative performances that showcased complex arrangements and a blend of styles, including progressive jazz and orchestral elements. Released numerous albums, including 'City of Glass' and 'Artistry in Rhythm', influencing generations of musicians. Conducted pioneering experiments with instrumentation and orchestration in jazz music.
Continue ReadingNicholas P. Dallis
A psychiatrist and illustrator contributed to the development of graphic medicine through the creation of the comic strip 'The Doctor's Dilemma'. This work illustrated the complexities of medical dilemmas and the psychiatrist-patient relationship. Additionally, involvement in the field of sex education and psychiatric care marked a significant part of the career. Dallis combined psychiatric insights with artistic expression, aiming to educate the public on mental health issues and medical practices through engaging visual storytelling.
Continue ReadingJules Dassin
An American director, producer, screenwriter, and actor, made significant contributions to the film industry throughout a career that spanned several decades. Emigrating to Europe during the McCarthy era, worked in France and Greece, directing a range of films across various genres. Gained acclaim for innovative storytelling and strong visual style, especially in crime and drama films. The heist film 'Rififi' garnered notable recognition and is considered a classic in the genre. Other films such as 'Night and the City' and 'Topkapi' showcased adeptness in creating suspenseful narratives while earning critical praise.
Continue ReadingHortense Calisher
An American author, recognized for contributions to literature, particularly in the genre of short stories and novels. Writings often explored themes of Jewish identity and the complexities of family relationships. Published notable works, including 'The New Yorker' stories and 'The Book of Samuel'. Received several awards throughout her career, including the O. Henry Award, emphasizing the significance of her literary contributions. She also taught creative writing at various institutions, influencing aspiring writers with dedication to craft.
Continue ReadingJosh Gibson
Played as a catcher for the Homestead Grays and the Pittsburgh Crawfords. Regarded as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history during the Negro Leagues. Recorded an estimated 800 home runs over his career, though official statistics remain incomplete due to the era in which he played. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972, recognizing his contributions to the sport and excellence on the field. Played in several All-Star games, showcasing talent that transcended barriers in the sport.
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