What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

C. Odumegwu Ojukwu

Nigerian politician and leader of Biafra
Born
November 4th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 78 years old

A colonel and politician, played a significant role during the Nigerian Civil War. Led the secessionist state of Biafra from 1967 to 1970 and served as its first and only president. Advocated for the rights of the Igbo people and sought independence amid rising tensions and conflicts with the Nigerian government. After the war, faced charges of rebellion and was exiled to the UK before returning to Nigeria years later. Engaged in various political activities thereafter, including running for governorship in Anambra State.

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Hideki Irabu

Baseball player and Yankees pitcher
Born
May 15th, 1969 56 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 42 years old

Played professional baseball as a pitcher, primarily in Major League Baseball (MLB). Made debut in 1997 with the San Diego Padres. Became a member of the New York Yankees in 1999, contributing to the team during a successful period. Achieved a career-high 10 wins in 2000. Played for the Montreal Expos as well later in his career. Known for his fastball and being the first Japanese player to be signed by the Yankees.

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Würzel

English singer and guitarist with Motörhead
Born
October 23rd, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1949, this English musician gained prominence as the guitarist for the heavy metal band Motörhead. Starting his career in the early 1980s, this guitarist contributed to the band's distinctive sound during a significant period. In addition to his work with Motörhead, he also released solo albums and collaborated with various artists in the rock genre. His energetic performances and riff-heavy playing style became a hallmark of his contributions to rock music until his passing.

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Eleanor Ross Taylor

American poet and educator
Born
June 30th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 91 years old

An accomplished poet and educator, this individual contributed significantly to American literature. Published works include 'The Poets of the Future' and 'Wilderness;', which reflect profound themes and engaging language. Teaching roles included positions at various educational institutions, inspiring future generations of writers. The poetry often exhibits a deep connection to nature and personal experience, reinforcing the importance of observation and introspection in the art of writing.

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Karel Rachůnek

Czech ice hockey player and forward
Born
August 27th, 1979 46 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 32 years old

A professional ice hockey player, played as a forward. Played in the NHL for the Ottawa Senators and the New York Rangers. Represented the Czech Republic in international competitions, contributing to the team's success at various championships. Lost his life in a plane crash in 2011 while playing for Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in the KHL.

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Leonidas Andrianopoulos

Greek footballer and national team player
Born
August 10th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 100 years old

A Greek footballer played as a forward, primarily associated with AEK Athens. Debuted in the 1930s and became a key player for the national team, contributing to Greece's participation in international competitions. His playing style and scoring ability earned recognition in Greek football, and he was part of the squad that competed in the 1934 FIFA World Cup. Continued to influence the game, both on and off the field, through subsequent years.

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Michael Baze

American jockey and horse racing competitor
Born
April 14th, 1987 39 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 24 years old

Baze participated in thoroughbred horse racing, achieving significant success in the competitive field. Began career in the early 2000s and quickly garnered attention for skill and commitment. Competed at major venues including Churchill Downs and Santa Anita Park. Notably won the 2009 Santa Anita Derby aboard the horse 'Chocolate Candy'.

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Cesária Évora

Cape Verdean singer and musician
Born
August 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 70 years old

Born in the Cape Verde archipelago, Évora achieved international acclaim as a singer of morna, a traditional genre combining African and Portuguese influences. Her powerful voice and emotive performances captured the essence of Cape Verde's cultural heritage. Évora rose to prominence in the 1990s, particularly after the release of the album 'Mar Azul' in 1991. Subsequent albums, 'Café Atlantico' and 'Voz d'Amor', further solidified her reputation worldwide. Évora often performed barefoot, reflecting her connection to her roots and her humility. She toured extensively, enchanting audiences in Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

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Marv Tarplin

Guitarist and songwriter for The Miracles
Born
June 13th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent guitarist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the Motown sound. Joined The Miracles in the early 1960s and played a vital role in shaping their musical style. Wrote and performed on hit songs that defined the era, collaborating closely with Smokey Robinson. His work with The Miracles led to a series of successful albums and singles, impacting the musical landscape of the time.

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