Savielly Tartakower, Russian-French chess player, journalist, and author (b. 1887)

Savielly Tartakower (born Ksawery Tartakower; 21 February 1887 – 4 February 1956), often known also as Xavier Tartakower, was a preeminent figure in the world of chess, distinguished both as an International Grandmaster representing Poland and France, and as a prolific intellectual. Born in Rostov-on-Don in the Russian Empire to Austrian parents, Tartakower's remarkable life and career spanned major geopolitical shifts, profoundly shaping his identity and contributions to the global chess community.

Before dedicating himself fully to chess, Tartakower pursued academic excellence, studying law at the universities of Geneva and Vienna. This rigorous intellectual background informed his deep and often philosophical approach to the game. His experiences, including serving in the Austro-Hungarian army during World War I, further underscored the complexities of his European identity, which would later manifest in his dual national affiliations.

A Grandmaster of Dual Nationality and Distinctive Style

Tartakower's identity as a Polish and later French chess player is a compelling narrative woven into the fabric of 20th-century European history. He was a cornerstone of the Polish national chess team, representing Poland in six Chess Olympiads between 1930 and 1939. His leadership helped secure a historic team gold medal at the 1930 Hamburg Olympiad and an individual silver medal in 1931. Following the tumultuous events of World War II, Tartakower settled in France, obtained French citizenship, and subsequently represented France in the 1950 and 1954 Chess Olympiads, showcasing his enduring loyalty to the game across national borders.

A defining moment in his illustrious competitive career occurred in 1950 when he was among the initial 27 players to be awarded the prestigious title of International Grandmaster by FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs). This inaugural recognition solidified his standing among the global chess elite, acknowledging his consistent high-level performance and profound understanding of the game's intricate dynamics throughout decades of play.

Tartakower's playing style was characterized by its originality, paradoxical nature, and a deep, often witty, appreciation for the nuances of chess. He was a prominent adherent and expositor of the hypermodern school of chess, which emphasized controlling the center from a distance with pieces rather than immediate pawn occupation. He made significant theoretical contributions, including the Tartakower Defence in the Queen's Gambit Declined and variations in the Caro-Kann Defence, which continue to be studied and employed in modern opening theory. His memorable and often humorous aphorisms, such as "The blunders are all there on the board, waiting to be made," have become legendary, highlighting his unique blend of insight and charm.

A Prolific Chess Journalist and Author

Beyond his considerable achievements on the chessboard, Savielly Tartakower was equally celebrated as a leading chess journalist and author, flourishing particularly during the vibrant chess scene of the 1920s and 1930s. His literary output was substantial, comprising numerous influential books, detailed tournament reports, and regular columns in prominent chess magazines. His writing was highly regarded for its intellectual rigor, sharp wit, and engaging prose, which made complex chess concepts accessible and enjoyable to a broad audience, from casual enthusiasts to aspiring masters.

Among his most influential works are "My Best Games of Chess 1905-1954" (published posthumously in English) and "Die Hypermoderne Schachpartie" (The Hypermodern Chess Game), a seminal text that articulated the principles of the hypermodern movement. Through his extensive writings, Tartakower not only meticulously analyzed games but also delved into the psychological, strategic, and even philosophical dimensions of chess, profoundly shaping the way many players thought about and approached the game.

Legacy and Enduring Influence

Savielly Tartakower's legacy extends far beyond his competitive successes. He is remembered as a polyglot, a brilliant conversationalist, and a true intellectual who enriched the chess world with his unique personality, profound insights, and lasting literary contributions. His writings continue to be studied for their historical value, analytical depth, and timeless wisdom, firmly cementing his reputation as one of the most influential and colorful figures in chess history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Savielly Tartakower

• Who was Savielly Tartakower known for?
• Savielly Tartakower was a distinguished Polish and French International Grandmaster, a prolific chess journalist, and an influential author known for his unique playing style, intellectual depth, and witty insights into the game.
• When was Savielly Tartakower awarded the Grandmaster title?
• He was awarded the prestigious International Grandmaster title by FIDE in its inaugural year, 1950, recognizing his long-standing achievements and consistent high-level play in top-tier chess.
• What nationalities did Savielly Tartakower hold?
• Savielly Tartakower initially represented Poland in international chess competitions and later became a French citizen after World War II, representing France in his later career. Thus, he held both Polish and French nationalities.
• What were some of Savielly Tartakower's key contributions to chess?
• Beyond his competitive success, Tartakower was a leading proponent of the hypermodern school of chess, contributing significantly to opening theory (e.g., the Tartakower Defence). He was also a highly influential author and journalist whose extensive writings are still highly regarded for their analytical depth, strategic insights, and engaging wit.