Max Euwe

Biography (1901–1981)

Fifth world champion (1935–1937). A chess amateur (Doctor of Mathematics, teacher), Euwe led the Dutch team at seven Chess Olympiads, and in 1928 became the world amateur champion. Euwe fought successfully in tournaments and matches in the late 1920s and early 1930s and challenged Alekhine to a match for the world title. Victory was predicted for Alekhine, but it went to Euwe, who turned the misfortune start of the match. The new champion was ready to transfer the rights to organize matches for the world championship to FIDE, but if the title was retained in a mandatory rematch, Alekhine won it.Euwe's play was notable for its logic and precise calculation of variations. He was known as a chess researcher, a strong tactician, and an expert in opening theory. He is the author of many books, including chess textbooks and opening guides.Euwe remained one of the strongest chess players in the world until the early 1950s, playing in the 1953 Candidates Tournament, and after finishing his career at the highest level, he took up research in computer science. Euwe was elected President of FIDE in 1970 and served in this position for two terms (1970-1978).

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Just like doctor, who first must gain a clear picture of the deceased condition in order afterwards to plan the process of the cure – diagnosis, treatment, – the chess player must make a plan on the basis of such characteristic as he has found in the examination of a given position

Strategy requires thought, tactics require observation

The attacking player can often look beyond immediate position and say: “I could give mate if…” Once this if-position is determined, means of accomplishing the mate often suggest themselves. At times one can bring about if-position by a simple sacrifice. At other times, moving toward if-position can be converted into a threat which may force opponent into making further weakening moves

On Euwe

I should like to express my joy and amazement regarding the fact, that the chess throne has been occupied not only outstanding master, but also a very likeable person… The supreme chess title has been won by a truly noble person, a gentleman from head to toe

A worthy champion

Euwe’s entire life is an example of selfless devotion to chess

Euwe was a very good player. Botvinnik is said to found the system of global preparation, but I think Euwe was the first to do this… Euwe`s approach was very competent, professional. He was quite a universal chess player himself