Chess Highlights of the 20th Century

Like the rest of the world, the game of chess has changed enormously during the 20th century. This book surveys these developments by focusing on the top events, greatest achievements and most brilliant games, year-by-year. In the early part of the century, the Hypermoderns revolutionized opening [...]
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Like the rest of the world, the game of chess has changed enormously during the 20th century. This book surveys these developments by focusing on the top events, greatest achievements and most brilliant games, year-by-year. In the early part of the century, the Hypermoderns revolutionized opening play, with their new understanding of the center. The inter-war years were dominated by the great champions Capablanca and Alekhine. After 1945, the Soviets used dynamic ideas and a professional approach to gain world supremacy. They also turned chess from a game of gentlemen into a game for the masses. The Soviet hegemony was broken by Bobby Fischer, whose success sparked a chess renaissance in the West, and motivated a whole generation of chess players. As the century closes, the rise of computers has provided grandmasters with a new tool, but some believe the machines cast a shadow over the whole future of the game. The story of chess in the 20th century offers a microcosm in which developments in the wider world are reflected. This instructive and engaging book places the chess material in its historical context with a review of the main stories of each year away from the chessboard. It will delight all those with a general interest in chess and its players, whether they are seeking to improve their game, gain a better appreciation of our chess heritage, or simply looking for entertainment. "Chess Highlights of the 20th Century" includes: the 20th century's finest games and combinations; photographs of the greatest players; and play by Capablanca, Alekhine, Tal, Fischer, Kasparov, and many others.