Machgielis "Max" Euwe (1901–1981) was the fifth World Chess Champion (1935–1937). A chess amateur, Doctor of Mathematics, and teacher, Euwe led the Dutch team at seven Chess Olympiads, becoming the world amateur champion in 1928. Euwe fought successfully in tournaments and matches in the late 1920s and early 1930s and challenged Alekhine to a match for the world title.
Though victory was predicted for Alekhine, it went to Euwe, who turned around a difficult start. The new champion was ready to transfer the rights to organize matches for the world championship to FIDE, but Alekhine won it back in a mandatory rematch. Euwe's play was notable for its logic and precise calculation of variations. He was known as a chess researcher, a strong tactician, and an expert in opening theory.
Diploma of the World Champion Max Euwe (1935-12-17) by From FIDE archiveInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
Diploma awarded to World Chess Champion Max Euwe by the International Chess Federation, signed by its President Alexander Rueb: “The Central Committee of the International Chess Federation certifies that Machgielis Euwe was proclaimed World Champion."
Euwe authored many books, including chess textbooks and opening guides. He remained one of the strongest chess players in the world until the early 1950s, playing in the 1953 Candidates Tournament. After finishing his career at the highest level, he took up research in computer science. Euwe was elected President of FIDE in 1970 and served in this position for two terms (1970-1978).
Max Euwe on the cover
“Het Noorden in Woord en Beeld” featured the newly crowned World Chess Champion on the cover of the 1935 issue. This illustrated weekly magazine, which translates to “North in Words and Images”, was published in Groningen from 1925 to 1941.
Autograph of Max Euwe by Max EuweInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
Euwe's autograph
Euwe's signature chess combination
Geller – Euwe. Zurich 1953
It seems like Black is under a great attack, but with a brilliant rook sacrifice, Euwe distracts the white queen and then quickly attacks the white king! 22…Rh8! 23.Q:h8 Rc2 24.Rc1 R:g2+ 25.Kf1 Qb3! and checkmate is unavoidable so White resigned.
The Chess World Speaks: Opinions on Euwe
"The supreme chess title has been won by a truly noble person, a gentleman from head to toe." - Rudolf Spielmann
"Euwe's entire life is an example of selfless devotion to chess." - Anatoly Karpov
"Botvinnik is said to have founded the system of global preparation, but I think Euwe was the first to do this. Euwe's approach was very competent and professional." - Vladimir Kramnik
Jose Raul Capablanca and Max Euwe by Max Euwe CentreInternational Chess Federation (FIDE)
Third and fifth world chess champions: Jose Raul Capablanca (left) and Max Euwe (right).
Timeless chess tips from Euwe
Just like a doctor needs to understand a patient’s condition to treat them, a chess player must analyze the position on the board to make a plan.
Strategy requires thinking, while tactics require keen observation.
The attacking player can often look beyond the immediate position and think, "I could give mate if..." Once this potential position is envisioned, the means to achieve the mate often become clear.
Dive deeper: explore Max Euwe's legacy through these videos
Photos: Max Euwe Centrum and FIDE archive
