Alexander Alekhine

Date of Birth: October 31, 1892

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: March 24, 1946

Biography

Alexander Alekhine was a renowned chess grandmaster, born on October 31, 1892, in Moscow, Russia. He is widely celebrated for his exceptional skills and contributions to the world of chess. Alekhine began playing chess at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the world’s top players. He is best known for his dynamic and aggressive style of play, which set him apart from his contemporaries. Alekhine won the World Chess Championship in 1927 by defeating José Raúl Capablanca, a match that is still discussed in chess circles for its intensity and high-level play. He held the title until 1935 when he was defeated by Max Euwe, but Alekhine regained it in 1937 and held it until his death. His contributions to chess theory, including several opening variations, remain influential to this day. Throughout his life, Alekhine faced numerous challenges, including political turmoil and personal controversies. He was known for his sharp intellect and occasionally abrasive personality, which made him both a respected and polarizing figure in the chess community. Alekhine passed away on March 24, 1946, in Estoril, Portugal. Despite his untimely death, his legacy in the chess world endures, inspiring generations of players and enthusiasts.

5 Interesting Facts about Alexander Alekhine

1. Alexander Alekhine was the first officially recognized World Chess Champion to die while holding the title.

2. He was a polyglot, fluent in Russian, French, English, and German.

3. Alekhine served as a Red Cross worker in World War I and was once taken prisoner by the Austrians.

4. He is credited with several opening innovations, including the Alekhine’s Defense (1. e4 Nf6).

5. Alekhine authored several influential chess books, including “My Best Games of Chess 1908-1937”.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Alexander Alekhine

1. “Chess for me is not a game, but an art.”

2. “I have known many chess players, but among them there was only one genius—Capablanca.”

3. “You cannot play at chess if you are kind-hearted.”

4. “During a chess competition a chessmaster should be a combination of a beast of prey and a monk.”

5. “To win against me, you must beat me three times: in the opening, the middlegame, and the endgame.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While precise figures are not available, Alekhine’s highest net worth is estimated to have been modest compared to modern standards, largely due to the era in which he lived and the financial circumstances of professional chess players at the time.