What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Pavol Demitra

Slovak ice hockey player, NHL All-Star
Born
November 29th, 1974 50 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 37 years old

A professional ice hockey player, made significant contributions in the National Hockey League (NHL) and international competitions. Played primarily as a center and left winger. Represented teams including the St. Louis Blues, Ottawa Senators, and Minnesota Wild in the NHL. Achieved an NHL All-Star selection in 2003. Competed for Slovakia in multiple international tournaments, including the IIHF World Championships and the Winter Olympics. Demitra's career spanned from 1993 to 2011 before premature passing in a plane crash in 2011.

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Lidia Gueiler Tejada

First female President of Bolivia
Born
August 28th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A politician and activist, served as the first female President of Bolivia from 1979 to 1980. Advocated for social justice and women's rights throughout her political career. Tejada was involved in leftist politics, participating in various organizations and movements dedicated to challenging the inequalities faced by marginalized groups. Her presidency was marked by significant political turmoil and she faced opposition during her time in office, ultimately leading to her resignation. Despite her limited time in power, her election represented a significant moment in Bolivian history and women's representation in politics.

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Dennis Ritchie

Computer Scientist, created C language
Born
September 9th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to computer science by creating the C programming language, a foundational language for modern software development. Co-developed the Unix operating system, which has influenced many others and led to the development of various programming innovations. Worked at Bell Labs, collaborating with other prominent scientists in the field. Authored several influential texts and guides on computer programming.

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Anne Sharp

Soprano and actress in opera and film
Born
October 24th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

A Scottish soprano and actress, gained recognition for performances in both opera and film. Engaged in the performing arts from an early age, demonstrated exceptional vocal talent and stage presence. Acted in a production of "The Merry Widow" and participated in numerous operatic presentations throughout her career. Contributed to radio and recordings, showcasing versatility as a performer. Continued to influence the arts community with performances that blended singing and acting.

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J. Ernest Wilkins Jr.

Nuclear scientist and engineer
Born
November 27th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1923, contributed to the Manhattan Project during World War II. Earning a PhD in nuclear engineering, focused research on reactor design and radiation shielding in the 1950s. Served as an educator at several esteemed institutions, emphasizing the importance of mathematical applications in engineering. Actively involved in promoting science and technology, particularly among underrepresented groups in the field. Received recognition for efforts in nuclear safety and mathematical modeling.

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Russell Hoban

Author of children's literature
Born
February 4th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 86 years old

An author and illustrator, contributions primarily spanned children's literature and adult fiction. Achievements include creating the renowned children's book series featuring Frances the badger. Worked in various genres, producing novels and illustrating his own works. Explored themes of identity, culture, and the human experience. Published over twenty novels and received critical acclaim for unique narrative styles and engaging storytelling.

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Bhimsen Joshi

Hindustani classical vocalist and musician
Born
February 4th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1922, this vocalist contributed significantly to Hindustani classical music. Training in the Kirana Gharana tradition, he became a prominent figure in Indian music. His performances were characterized by deep emotion and technical mastery. His contributions included numerous recordings and live performances, which showcased his vocal prowess. The recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, he elevated Hindustani music on both national and international stages until his passing in 2011.

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Norman Foster Ramsey Jr.

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics recipient
Born
August 27th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 96 years old

Contributions to the field of physics included work on atomic beams and maser technology. Served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing generations of physicists. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1989 for contributions to the development of methods to use atomic fields to measure frequency, which became essential in atomic clocks.

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John Mackey

American football player and tight end
Born
September 24th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 70 years old

Played in the National Football League as a tight end. Started career with the Baltimore Colts and later played for the New York Jets. Renowned for contributions to the game, particularly in the position of tight end. Key player in the Baltimore Colts' victory in Super Bowl V. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, recognizing a successful career and influence on the sport.

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