What Happened This Year 1911

Born in 1911

Billy Fiske

Pilot and soldier in World War II
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1940 85 years ago — 29 years old

Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Initially trained as a pilot in the United States, later joined the British forces due to the urgency of the conflict. Participated in various missions, demonstrating flying skills and bravery. Fiske tragically lost his life in action, earning recognition for his service and sacrifice.

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Endre Szervánszky

Hungarian pianist and composer
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1977 48 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent pianist and composer, contributed significantly to Hungarian classical music. Served as a professor at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, influencing generations of musicians. Composed numerous works, including orchestral, chamber, and piano pieces, showcasing unique harmonies and structures. Collaborated with various ensembles and performers throughout his career, presenting works in concerts across Hungary and abroad.

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Wilbert Awdry

Author of The Railway Series
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1997 28 years ago — 86 years old

An English cleric and author created a beloved children's book series featuring anthropomorphic trains. The Railway Series introduced characters such as Thomas the Tank Engine and provided entertaining stories emphasizing friendship and adventure. The first book was published in 1945, and the series continued with numerous titles, gaining popularity across generations. In addition to writing, the individual contributed to children's literature through storytelling techniques and relatable character development.

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Heinrich Mark

Estonian lawyer and politician
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2004 21 years ago — 93 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the 5th Prime Minister of Estonia in exile. During the years of Soviet occupation, this individual played a key role in advocating for the restoration of Estonian independence. Mark was involved in the Estonian government in exile, working to maintain international awareness of Estonia's situation and promote its sovereignty. After Estonia regained independence, he returned to the country and continued to contribute to its political landscape.

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Heinz von Foerster

Physicist and philosopher known for cybernetics
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 91 years old

Austrian-American physicist and philosopher contributed significantly to the field of cybernetics. Became a prominent figure in constructivist philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding human cognition and perception. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and founded the Biological Computer Laboratory. Engaged in interdisciplinary research, blending insights from philosophy, physics, and cognitive science.

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Vello Kaaristo

Estonian skier and Olympian
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1965 60 years ago — 54 years old

Competed in cross-country skiing and represented Estonia in international events. Participated in the Winter Olympics held in 1936 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Made significant contributions to the sport in Estonia, promoting skiing as a competitive activity. Kaaristo continued to support skiing in Estonia after his competitive career.

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André Castelot

Historian and author of French history
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2004 21 years ago — 93 years old

This historian and author specialized in French history, contributing significantly to the understanding of historical events and figures. Numerous works exploring the rich tapestry of France's past enriched public knowledge. Books include in-depth biographies and analyses of notable characters from French history, appealing to both scholars and the general public. Castelot's writings often featured engaging narratives that brought history to life, making complex subjects accessible. His expertise and passion for history left a lasting legacy in the field of historical literature.

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Milovan Đilas

Yugoslav communist theorist and author
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent communist leader, the individual played a significant role in Yugoslavia's post-World War II political landscape. Initially a close associate of Josip Broz Tito, the focus shifted towards critiquing the regime's bureaucracy and advocating for political reform. Authored several influential books, including 'The New Class,' which criticized the communist elite. Influenced political thought in Yugoslavia and beyond. Imprisoned multiple times for dissent against the regime, continued to write on communism and democracy until death.

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Klára Dán von Neumann

Computer scientist and programmer
Born
1911 114 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1963 61 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed to the development of early computing technologies in the mid-20th century. Played a key role in programming the ENIAC, one of the first electronic general-purpose computers. Worked at the Institute for Advanced Study where significant theoretical advancements in computer science occurred. Involved in the establishment of computer programming as a discipline and contributed to various machine designs and programming languages.

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