Max Euwe was a Duth chess player who became the fifth World Chess Champion. Born on May 20, 1901, Euwe was a highly accomplished chess player and mathematician. He studied mathematics at the University of Amsterdam and later earned a doctorate in mathematics.
Euwe’s chess career reached its pinnacle when he won the World Chess Championship title in 1935 by defeating the reigning champion, Alexander Alekhine, in a match. His victory came as a surprise to many, as Euwe was not considered one of the world’s leading players at the time. However, his solid and practical playing style, combined with meticulous preparation, proved effective against Alekhine.
After winning the World Championship, Euwe continued to be an active participant in the chess world, both as a player and as an organizer. He defended his title against Alekhine in a rematch in 1937 but ultimately lost. Despite this, Euwe remained a respected figure in the chess community and continued to contribute to the game through his writings, teachings, and organizational efforts.
Outside of chess, Euwe also had a distinguished academic career, serving as a professor of mathematics and making significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in the area of probability theory.
Max Euwe passed away on November 26, 1981, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most notable figures in the history of Dutch and world chess.
Max Euwe, being a versatile and strategic player, did not have a single favorite opening or play. Instead, he was known for his adaptability and proficiency across a wide range of chess positions and openings.
However, one opening that Euwe was particularly associated with is the Dutch Defense (1.d4 f5), which he often played in his games. The Dutch Defense reflects Euwe’s Dutch heritage and was a part of his repertoire throughout his career.
Apart from specific openings, Euwe’s style of play was characterized by solid positional understanding, combined with an ability to seize tactical opportunities when they arose. He was known for his deep understanding of chess principles and his ability to outmaneuver opponents in strategic battles.
Overall, Euwe’s favorite play could be described as dynamic and resourceful, with a focus on creating imbalances and exploiting weaknesses in his opponent’s position. He was a well-rounded player, capable of adapting his style to different situations and opponents, making him a formidable competitor on the chessboard.
Notable Games