Euwe, Machgielis (1901-1981)

5th World Champion, 1935 - 1937

Born in Watergraafsmeer, the Netherlands in 1901. He was a professor of mathematics and mechanics, chess taking second place to his professional life. He remained an amateur throughout his chess playing career. He held the World Championship title between 1935 and 1937 after defeating Alekhine. Euwe wrote more chess books than any other grandmaster and they have been translated into many languages. After his retirement he was FIDE president from 1970 to 1978 and arbitrated over the turbulent Fischer - Spassky World Championship match in Reykjavik, Iceland in 1972.