What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Fred Shuttlesworth

Civil Rights Activist, Co-founder SCLC
Born
March 18th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 89 years old

Played a crucial role in the American civil rights movement. Co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Focused efforts on desegregation and voter registration, advocating for equality and justice in the South. Led numerous protests and demonstrations to combat racial discrimination, particularly in Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his courageous activism despite facing violence and intimidation.

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Derek Gardner

Engineer and designer of the Jaguar E-Type
Born
September 19th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 80 years old

An engineer and designer with significant contributions to automotive design, particularly in the mid-20th century. Attended the Birmingham College of Arts and Crafts, influenced by the burgeoning automotive industry. Achieved prominence through work with the Jaguar Car Company. Played a pivotal role in the development of the iconic Jaguar E-Type, which was introduced in the 1960s and became a symbol of automotive excellence. Also contributed to various automotive projects, enhancing Jaguar's reputation for performance and style throughout his career.

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Tom West

American technologist and entrepreneur
Born
November 22nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent technologist who contributed to the development of innovative computer technologies. Established a company that focused on advanced computing solutions and has been pivotal in the field of computer-aided design. Played a significant role in introducing user-friendly software for various applications. Contributed to several important projects that shaped the evolution of software engineering practices and tools. Actively engaged in mentoring young technologists and fostering innovation within the tech community.

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Iakovos Kambanelis

Greek author and screenwriter
Born
December 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 89 years old

An influential figure in Greek literature, contributed significantly to poetry, plays, and screenwriting. Authored the celebrated play 'The Last Man' and was involved in screenwriting for Greek cinema, including works that reflect the struggles of Greek society. His writing often explored themes of identity and exile, echoing the complexities of modern Greek history. Kambanelis also participated in the resistance against the Axis occupation during World War II, which shaped his literary voice. Recognition came through multiple awards and honors, establishing a lasting legacy in Greek arts and letters.

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Armen Gilliam

Basketball player and coach in the NBA
Born
May 28th, 1964 62 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 47 years old

Played college basketball at UNLV, where a notable season included leading the Runnin' Rebels to a National Championship game. Entered the NBA after being selected as the 7th overall pick in the 1990 draft. Played for multiple teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers and the Atlanta Hawks, over a career spanning 13 seasons in the league. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, taking on assistant coaching roles in different college programs and developing young talent in the sport.

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Agnes Milowka

Diving explorer, author, and photographer
Born
December 23rd, 1981 44 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 30 years old

Born in Poland and later residing in Australia, this individual specialized in cave diving and underwater photography. Significant contributions to the exploration of underwater caves were made, with a strong focus on documenting these environments through high-quality photography. Authoring several works on diving techniques and cave environments further showcased expertise in the field. In addition to diving, extensive efforts in promoting safety and awareness regarding cave diving were undertaken, particularly regarding the hazards involved.

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Ruslan Salei

Belarusian ice hockey player, NHL standout
Born
November 2nd, 1974 51 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 37 years old

An accomplished ice hockey player with a prolific career in the NHL. Played as a defenseman and represented several teams, including the Anaheim Ducks and the Colorado Avalanche. Achieved significant success during the tenure with the Detroit Red Wings, contributing to their postseason runs. Also represented Belarus in international competitions, showcasing exceptional skills on the ice. Tragically, lost life in a plane crash in 2011, which ended a remarkable athletic career.

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Trish Keenan

Singer-songwriter of Broadcast band
Born
September 28th, 1968 57 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 43 years old

Originated from England, contributions to music included serving as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the band Broadcast. The band emerged in the late 1990s, intertwining elements of electronic and psychedelic pop. Released several albums, including "Tender Buttons" and "Haha Sound," which received critical acclaim. Passed away in 2011, leaving behind a significant influence on the music genre.

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Danny Litwhiler

Baseball player and coach, MLB outfielder
Born
August 31st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 95 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1939 to 1952, representing teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, and Cincinnati Reds. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to various teams in the minor leagues and the major leagues. Litwhiler also was notable as an educator and mentor, emphasizing player development throughout his coaching career. Developed a reputation for emphasizing sportsmanship and skill in young athletes.

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