Mikhail Tal

Born on 9 November 1936 in Riga, Latvia.

Learned to play chess at age six and joined the Riga Palace of Young Pioneers chess club.

Graduated in Literature from the University of Latvia, writing a thesis on the satirical works of Ilf and Petrov.

Taught school in Riga for a time in his early twenties.

Eighth World Chess Champion, winning the title in 1960 by defeating Mikhail Botvinnik at age 23 — the youngest world champion at that time.

Lost the rematch in 1961 but remained one of the most feared attacking players in history.

Known as "The Magician from Riga" for his spectacular sacrificial combinations and unpredictable style.

Struggled with chronic kidney problems throughout his life, which only added to his legendary "tragic hero" persona.

Continued to play and write until his death in 1992; he was playing in a tournament just a month before he died.

Tal's health was so fragile that opponents sometimes felt they were playing against a ghost; he often looked pale and exhausted but would still produce brilliant attacks.

His autobiography Life and Games of Mikhail Tal is universally celebrated as one of the greatest chess books ever written.

He was a beloved figure in the chess world, known for his wit and generosity.

"There are two types of sacrifices: correct ones and mine."

"You must take your opponent into a deep dark forest where 2+2=5, and the path leading out is only wide enough for one."

Life and Games of Mikhail Tal (1976) — classic memoir.

Tal-Botvinnik 1960 — match book.

Attack with Mikhail Tal — instructional work.