What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Richard Leacock

Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.

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Liviu Ciulei

Romanian actor and director of plays
Born
July 7th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Ciulei was an influential figure in Romanian theater and cinema. He studied at the University of Bucharest, where he later became a prominent teacher. His directorial debut occurred in the 1960s, leading a production of 'Hamlet'. Ciulei also starred in films such as 'The Reenactment' and 'The Last Stop'. His innovative approach to stage directing earned him recognition among peers. He received numerous awards for his contributions to theater and film, receiving accolades at both national and international levels.

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Simona Senoner

Ski Jumper and World Championship medalist
Born
June 13th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 18 years old

Competed in ski jumping and represented Italy at the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. Achieved notable performances in international competitions. Specialized in the women's ski jumping events, contributing to the sport's development in Italy.

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George Tooker

American painter; work includes 'The Waiting Room'
Born
August 5th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 91 years old

An American painter, recognized for creating figurative works that often incorporate surreal elements. Tooker's art reflects social concerns and a deep empathy for the human condition. He studied at the National Academy of Design and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. His paintings feature intricate details and rich colors, depicting individuals in contemplative settings. 'The Waiting Room', created in 1950, is one of his signature works, illustrating themes of isolation and connection. Throughout his career, Tooker received various accolades and exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.

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Nguyễn Cao Kỳ

Vietnamese General & Prime Minister
Born
September 8th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

Born in September 1930, a military general and politician in Vietnam. Served as the 16th Prime Minister of the Republic of Vietnam from 1967 to 1971. Held significant influence during the Vietnam War as a prominent figure in the South Vietnamese government. After the fall of Saigon in 1975, lived in exile for several decades before returning to Vietnam in the early 1990s.

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Wiel Coerver

Football manager and player, Coerver Method
Born
December 3rd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 87 years old

A Dutch football player and manager, recognized for developing the Coerver Method, a technique focused on improving individual skills and ball control. Played as a midfielder during the 1940s and 1950s. Transitioned into coaching, where he implemented the Coerver Method to train players and teams. His coaching influenced many football academies and trainers worldwide, emphasizing skill development through structured training sessions. Worked with various clubs and national teams, contributing to the growth of young talent in football.

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William Lipscomb

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 92 years old

Contributions included significant work in the fields of chemistry and molecular structure, especially in the area of boranes, a class of compounds containing boron and hydrogen. While at Harvard University, served as a professor and conducted extensive research that led to a deeper understanding of these compounds. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1976 for work on the structure and bonding of boron compounds. Authored numerous articles and participated in various academic collaborations throughout a distinguished career.

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Samuel Wanjiru

Kenyan Olympic marathon champion
Born
November 10th, 1986 38 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 25 years old

A marathon runner achieved notable success in distance running. Secured a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, marking a significant achievement in Olympic history. Established multiple course records, including victories in prestigious marathons such as the London Marathon and the Chicago Marathon. Demonstrated exceptional speed and talent, breaking the then world record in the marathon distance.

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Gene Colan

Comic book illustrator for Marvel Comics
Born
September 1st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 85 years old

An illustrator contributed significantly to the comic book industry, particularly for Marvel Comics. Worked on notable characters such as Daredevil and Dracula, bringing a distinct style and dynamic storytelling to the pages. Created iconic story arcs that shaped the narrative of superhero comics in the 1960s and 1970s. Colan's work showcased a unique blend of realism and fantasy, influencing generations of artists in the comic book medium. Received multiple awards for contributions to the industry, solidifying a legacy within the art community.

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