What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

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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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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Johnnie Wright

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 13th, 1914 112 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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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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Samuel Wanjiru

Kenyan Olympic marathon champion
Born
November 10th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
2011 15 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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Zoogz Rift

Musician and professional wrestler
Born
July 10th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1953, this individual achieved recognition as both a musician and professional wrestler. As a musician, contributions included experimental rock and avant-garde music, characterized by unique sound and performance style. The wrestling career featured participation in various promotions, showcasing both physical prowess and theatrical performance. The combination of these two careers established a distinct persona within both music and sports entertainment.

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Oliver Napier

Northern Irish lawyer and politician
Born
July 11th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician from Northern Ireland, influential in the political landscape during the late 20th century. Played a significant role in advocating for civil rights and engaged in various political efforts aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation during a turbulent period in the region. Represented the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland, contributing to discussions and negotiations surrounding the Northern Ireland conflict. Served in various capacities within the party and held an influential editorial role in local media.

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Homer Smith

American football player and coach
Born
October 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 80 years old

A college football player and later a coach, achieved success in various coaching roles. Served as head coach at several universities, including the University of Arizona and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Contributed to the development of the passing game in American football, influencing future coaching strategies. Also known for coaching stints in the Canadian Football League.

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