Alexander Alekhine

Born on 31 October 1892 in Moscow, into a wealthy aristocratic family; his father was a landowner and member of the Duma, his mother an heiress.

Learned chess from his mother at age seven, alongside his brother Alexei.

He wrote: "From childhood I felt an irresistible, intense desire for chess."

As a youth he was extremely studious and formal, absorbing chess literature voraciously.

Attended the classical gymnasium of L.I. Polivanov in Moscow.

Studied law at the Imperial Moscow University, though his studies were interrupted by World War I and the Russian Revolution.

He was fluent in multiple languages and a prolific writer.

Fourth World Chess Champion, holding the title twice: 1927–1935 and 1937–1946.

Defeated Capablanca in 1927 in a grueling match in Buenos Aires, becoming the first player to truly challenge Capablanca's aura of invincibility.

Lost the title to Max Euwe in 1935 (a shock upset) but regained it in 1937 and held it until his death in 1946.

Known for his ferocious attacking play and deep opening preparation; he was one of the first players to systematically study opponents' weaknesses.

His life was shadowed by alcoholism and personal turmoil, but his chess genius was undeniable.

Alekhine was famously abstemious in his youth but later struggled with alcohol, which affected his play in the 1935 match.

He was a "social monster" according to some contemporaries, with a complex and difficult personality.

He died in Lisbon in 1946, still holding the world title — the only champion to die as reigning champion until Bobby Fischer's later situation.

"Through chess I developed my character."

"I consider chess an art, and I am ready to sacrifice everything for it."

My Best Games of Chess 1908–1923 — a classic collection.

My Best Games of Chess 1924–1937 — the second volume.

On the Chessboard — a collection of writings.