What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Peter Frelinghuysen Jr.

American politician and military officer
Born
January 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 95 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman representing New Jersey from 1953 to 1974. Held the position of chairman of the House Committee on Science and Astronautics. Participated in World War II as a U.S. Army officer, achieving the rank of lieutenant. Engaged in local politics prior to congressional service, influencing regional policies.

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Alberto de Mendoza

Argentine actor in film and television
Born
January 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Argentina, a prominent actor developed a successful career in film and television beginning in the 1940s. Gained recognition for performances in various films, particularly in the genre of drama and horror. Starred in significant Argentine films such as 'Los Olvidados' and 'El Rayo.' Appeared in numerous telenovelas, becoming a familiar face to television audiences. Worked extensively in theater and received acclaim for live performances. Received awards for contributions to the arts.

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Richard Winters

American soldier and World War II leader
Born
January 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a commander in the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment during World War II. Played a crucial role in the Normandy landings and the liberation of Europe. Led the company in significant battles including Bastogne and Arnhem. After the war, contributed to various veteran affairs and wrote a memoir detailing his experiences during the war. The story of his leadership and experiences has been recognized in popular culture, including the series 'Band of Brothers'.

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Albert Rosellini

American lawyer and 15th Governor of Washington
Born
January 21st, 1910 115 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 101 years old

Served as the 15th Governor of Washington from 1957 to 1965. Played a significant role in the development of the state's infrastructure, particularly in the expansion of the highway system. Involved in various initiatives to enhance educational funding and mental health services during the governorship. After leaving office, continued to be active in state politics and community affairs.

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Claudia Heill

Austrian judoka and Olympic medalist
Born
January 24th, 1982 43 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 29 years old

Competed in judo, achieving significant success at the international level. Secured a bronze medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics in the women's -63 kg category. Represented Austria in multiple European Championships, securing medals and helping to elevate the profile of judo in the country. Regularly participated in international competitions, contributing to the growth of the sport within Austria.

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Magnus Malan

South African general and Minister of Defence
Born
January 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a general in the South African Defense Force and held the position of Minister of Defence from 1990 to 1994. Participated in military operations during the apartheid era and was involved in the transition to democracy in South Africa. After leaving politics, engaged in various business ventures and continued to influence military discourse in the country.

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Rudolf Mössbauer

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner for spectroscopy
Born
January 31st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 82 years old

A German physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of nuclear gamma resonance spectroscopy. Developed the Mössbauer effect, demonstrating recoil-free gamma-ray emission and absorption in solids. This groundbreaking work facilitated advancements in various scientific disciplines, including chemistry, physics, and geology. The achievement garnered a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1961, awarded for pioneering research in fundamental properties of atomic nuclei and their interactions.

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Rolland W. Redlin

American lawyer and politician
Born
February 29th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 91 years old

Born on February 29, 1920, a prominent figure in law and political affairs. Practiced law in Wisconsin and served in various political roles, including as a state senator. Engaged in legislation impacting education and labor laws during tenure in the Wisconsin State Legislature. Played a significant role in legal reforms and community initiatives, representing constituents' interests.

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Hella Haasse

Indonesian-Dutch author of historical novels
Born
February 2nd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 93 years old

An Indonesian-Dutch author, Haasse was recognized for extensive literary contributions, including novels and essays that explore themes of identity and colonialism. Raised in Indonesia, she moved to the Netherlands after World War II, where she continued her writing career. Her works often reflect the complexities of her dual heritage, weaving intricate narratives that emphasize historical contexts. The novel 'Heren van de Thee' (Teahouse) gained notable acclaim and established her as a significant figure in Dutch literature. Over her career, she received multiple accolades, including the prestigious Constantijn Huygens Prize.

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