What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Claude Laydu

Actor, producer, screenwriter
Born
March 10th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 84 years old

Originally from Belgium, engaged in acting, producing, and screenwriting, contributing significantly to French cinema. Gained recognition for roles in several films, especially in the 1950s and 1960s. Featured prominently in the film 'Journal d'un curé de campagne' which indicated a strong artistic direction. Produced and wrote for a number of film projects that highlighted unique narratives. His involvement in the French film industry spanned multiple decades, showcasing a commitment to cinematic arts.

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William Lipscomb

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2011 15 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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Nguyễn Cao Kỳ

Vietnamese General & Prime Minister
Born
September 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2011 15 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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Madelyn Pugh

Television writer for I Love Lucy
Born
March 15th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 90 years old

A television writer and producer contributed to the success of the iconic series I Love Lucy. This individual worked alongside Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, creating memorable characters and storylines. The collaboration with Ball as a head writer became significant in shaping American television comedy. Later, worked on series such as The Lucy Show and Here's Lucy, continuing to develop successful content in the industry. This individual also contributed to the production of various projects, influencing the direction of television writing.

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Kader Asmal

South African politician and academic
Born
October 8th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 77 years old

An academic and politician with significant contributions to South Africa's education system and policy reform. Played a pivotal role during the transition from apartheid to democracy. Served as a member of the African National Congress and held various ministerial positions. Actively advocated for human rights and democratic values throughout his career. Also involved in drafting important legislation to improve access to education and promote social justice.

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Bronislovas Lubys

Lithuanian Prime Minister
Born
October 8th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent Lithuanian businessman and politician, served as Prime Minister of Lithuania from 1999 to 2000. Held significant positions in both government and industry, contributing to the development of Lithuania's economic policies following independence. Played a vital role in various business ventures, particularly in the telecommunications sector, significantly influencing the country's economic landscape during the transition period post-Soviet Union.

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José Alencar

Businessman and Brazilian politician
Born
October 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Brazil, a businessman and politician played a significant role in the country's economy and politics. Served as the Vice President of Brazil from 2003 to 2010 under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Alencar had a notable career in the textile industry, founding the successful company Coteminas, which contributed to the employment of many in Brazil. His focus on economic development and social justice shaped discussions in Brazilian governmental policies during his term.

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Ed Macauley

Basketball player and coach
Born
March 22nd, 1928 98 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 83 years old

Played professional basketball in the NBA from 1949 to 1960. Spent time with the St. Louis Hawks and the Boston Celtics. Selected as a 6-time NBA All-Star. Coached at the collegiate level after retirement. Later served as a priest.

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Johnnie Wright

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 13th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 97 years old

Involved in the music industry for several decades, contributed significantly to country music. Formed the duo Johnnie and Jack with Jack Anglin. Achieved commercial success with the hit 'Poison Love' and several other recordings throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Instrumental in the development of the Grand Ole Opry performances, establishing a legacy in American country music.

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