Description
his book takes the reader on a journey from the developments of the game in the early 19th century to the present day. From the revolutionary Wilhelm Steinitz and the important contribution of all subsequent world champions. Not only that, but also some other great players. But apart from the great players there is something else that has changed chess. So included within the book is the modern computer phenomenon, AlphaZero.
It is remarkable how much influence the chess players of the past have on today. Amazing games have been played over the years that are still being studied in the present by every chess player. The great Smyslov (whom we meet in the book) had emphasized the following. It is not possible for a chess player to achieve his maximum potential without understanding the evolution of chess over time. Because that is the natural evolution.
Today’s top players still borrow elements from the best games and ideas of previous generations. Besides, the more we study the history of chess and its representatives, the more we understand chess itself. But we still have a lot to understand..
In the words of the author..
I wrote this book primarily to explore, confirm and convey my own understanding of this great chess history. While I hope that much in this book is, indeed, convincing, please think and draw your own conclusions.
We all have historical roots, we are inevitably driven to constantly reinterpret the past to help understand our present and possible future. But indeed, the past often touches us when we least expect it! Of course, we must know that history moves on relentlessly. The game itself changes. The context varies. Enjoy this fantastic yet incessantly ongoing journey!
A very interesting book that deserves a place in every chess collection!
