What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Sena Jurinac

Soprano opera singer and recording artist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Bosnia, a celebrated soprano gained prominence for performances at renowned opera houses, including the Vienna State Opera and the Met. Worked extensively in both concert and operatic repertoire, achieving a notable career in the mid-20th century. Recorded numerous works, adding to a substantial discography that showcased a wide range of operatic roles. Contributed significantly to the art of opera interpretation and was a prominent figure in the 1950s and 1960s.

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Paul Motian

Jazz drummer and composer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent jazz drummer and composer, contributed significantly to the evolution of modern jazz. Worked with influential musicians such as Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett. Led own ensembles and created music blending influences from various genres. Developed a unique style characterized by a shift from traditional rhythm patterns to more unconventional approaches, allowing for greater improvisational freedom.

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Svetlana Alliluyeva

Author and political figure
Born
February 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Soviet Russia, a notable author and political figure, played a significant role in understanding Soviet life through literature. Authored several works, including an autobiography detailing personal experiences and historical events. Relocated to the United States, where she continued writing and engaging with political issues. The publications reflected on family relationships and the complexities of Soviet society, capturing a unique perspective on a nation in transition.

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Lynn Margulis

Biologist known for symbiotic theory
Born
March 5th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2011 13 years ago — 73 years old

A biologist and academic with significant contributions to evolutionary biology, studied the role of symbiosis in the development of complex life forms. Developed the endosymbiotic theory, proposing that mitochondria and chloroplasts originated from free-living prokaryotic organisms that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells. Published numerous works including the influential book 'Symbiotic Planet' which detailed the importance of cooperation and synergy in evolution. Served as a professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and received various accolades for contributions to scientific understanding.

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Jawayd Anwar

Pakistani poet and writer
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2011 13 years ago — 52 years old

Jawayd Anwar contributed to contemporary Urdu literature with a focus on poetry and prose. Works showcased themes of love, life, and societal issues. Anwar's writings often reflected personal experiences and cultural heritage, earning recognition in literary circles. His poetry resonated with readers beyond generational boundaries. As an author, he published several notable collections and received accolades for his contributions to the literary arts. His influence extended through public readings and literary events, inspiring future generations of writers.

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Coco Robicheaux

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2011 13 years ago — 64 years old

Music career began in the 1960s, playing in New Orleans. Worked with various musicians across genres, blending blues, rock, and Cajun styles. Released multiple albums, gaining a following in the local music scene. Known for lively performances that often showcased a mix of original songs and traditional New Orleans music. Contributed to the sound of the region through collaborations and performances.

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Vasily Alekseyev

Weightlifter and world champion coach
Born
January 7th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2011 13 years ago — 69 years old

Competed primarily in the super heavyweight category for the Soviet Union. Achieved significant success in the 1970s, setting numerous world records in weightlifting competitions. Claimed gold medals at the World Championships and the Olympic Games. Transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of future champions in the sport. Continued to influence weightlifting through training methodologies and technique refinement.

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Manon Cleary

American painter and academic
Born
November 14th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2011 13 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1942, a prominent American painter and academic. Specialized in contemporary art with a focus on abstraction. Contributed significantly to art education through various teaching roles at academic institutions. Exhibited work widely across the United States, gaining recognition for a unique style that melded color and form. Active in art communities and participated in numerous exhibitions, showcasing the evolution of abstract expressionism in contemporary art.

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Gary Speed

Welsh footballer and manager
Born
September 8th, 1969 55 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2011 13 years ago — 42 years old

Played as a midfielder for several clubs, including Leeds United, Everton, and Newcastle United. Managed the national team of Wales and achieved notable success during his tenure. Played for the Welsh national team, earning over 80 caps and participating in major international competitions.

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