What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Har Gobind Khorana

Biochemist, Nobel Prize winner in Physiology
Born
January 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

A biochemist and academic, this individual contributed significantly to the understanding of nucleic acids. Conducted groundbreaking research in the field of molecular biology, particularly in deciphering the genetic code. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1968, alongside Marshall W. Nirenberg and Robert W. Holley, for discoveries concerning the biological synthesis of ribonucleic acid and proteins. Held various academic appointments at prestigious institutions, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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Manfred Mayrhofer

Philologist and academic researcher
Born
September 26th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Austria in 1926, a significant figure in philology and linguistics. Focused on the study of historical linguistics and etymology. Engaged in extensive research on the origin and development of languages, particularly Indo-European languages. Contributed to various academic publications and served as a professor at several institutions, shaping the field of philology through teaching and research initiatives.

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Taiji

Japanese bass player & songwriter
Born
July 12th, 1966 58 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent bass player and songwriter contributed significantly to the Japanese music scene. Notably, played in the influential heavy metal band X Japan during its rise to fame. Involved in various musical projects throughout the career, showcasing versatility in genres and styles. Established a successful solo career, releasing several albums and singles.

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Millito Navarro

Puerto Rican baseball player, MLB player
Born
September 26th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 106 years old

A professional baseball player from Puerto Rico, played in Major League Baseball primarily during the 1930s. Made his debut with the Chicago Cubs and later played for the Philadelphia Phillies. Known for a strong batting average and solid defensive skills during a career that contributed to the growing presence of Puerto Rican athletes in the sport.

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Jet Harris

Bass player for The Shadows
Born
July 6th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 72 years old

An English bass player, celebrated as a founding member of the instrumental rock group The Shadows in the 1960s. The band gained prominence as a backing group for Cliff Richard and achieved significant success with hits such as 'Apache' and 'Wonderful Land'. Alongside his work with The Shadows, Harris also had a solo career and contributed to the British rock and roll scene. His distinctive bass playing and innovative techniques helped shape the sound of the band and influenced future musicians.

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Tatyana Shmyga

Russian actress and singer
Born
December 31st, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 83 years old

An influential figure in Soviet cinema and music, contributions spanned several decades. Portrayed memorable roles in films during the 1950s and 60s. Achieved recognition for performance in the film 'The Straw Hat' and gained popularity as a singer with several hit songs. Her work included collaborations with prominent artists and participation in cultural events.

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Sri Lal Sukla

Indian author of Raag Darbari
Born
December 31st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 86 years old

An Indian author contributed significantly to Hindi literature, particularly through the novel Raag Darbari. The work explored themes of rural life and bureaucracy, gaining prominence for its satirical portrayal of societal issues in post-independence India. The novel earned critical acclaim and won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1969. Apart from Raag Darbari, also engaged in writing essays and critiques that reflected contemporary society. Worked as a lecturer and served in various editorial roles in literary publications.

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Zdeněk Miler

Czech animator of 'The Little Mole'
Born
February 21st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1921, this animator gained prominence for creating the beloved character of The Little Mole, known for its charming storytelling and gentle humor. The character first appeared in animated films in the 1950s and quickly became a symbol of Czech animation. Miler's work includes numerous short films and television series featuring The Little Mole, captivating audiences with its simple yet endearing narratives. Miler's contribution to children's entertainment continues to resonate in Czech culture and beyond.

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Bad News Brown

Canadian rapper and actor
Born
May 8th, 1977 47 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 34 years old

A Canadian rapper, harmonica player, and actor. Rose to prominence in the music scene with a unique blend of hip-hop and harmonica performances. Gained recognition for collaborations with various artists and contributed to the Canadian hip-hop landscape. Transitioned into acting, appearing in notable productions that showcased versatility in performance. Helped to elevate the profile of Canadian rap through creative expression and musical innovation.

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