Savielly Tartakower became one of the original recipients of the International Grandmaster title when FIDE inaugurated the status in 1950. A polyglot and Doctor of Juridical Science, he navigated a complex career that spanned professional chess, military service in the Austro-Hungarian army, and active participation in the French Resistance during the Second World War.
Early Development and Academic Background
Born in Rostov-on-Don in 1887, Tartakower pursued legal studies at universities in Geneva and Vienna. During his time in Vienna, he frequented local cafés to engage with prominent masters such as Géza Maróczy and Carl Schlechter. His professional development accelerated with a tournament victory in Nuremberg in 1906, followed by a second-place finish in Vienna three years later.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Contributions to Hypermodernism
Alongside figures like Aron Nimzowitsch and Richard Réti, Tartakower emerged as a leading voice in the hypermodernist chess movement. He challenged conventional strategies by embracing irregular openings, including the Dutch Defence. His 1924 text, Die Hypermoderne Schachpartie, established his influence on the game's theory. His analytical work is further reflected in his book, A Breviary of Chess.
Olympiad Success and Polish Representation
Although he settled in Paris after the First World War, Tartakower accepted Polish citizenship and served as team captain for Poland in six international tournaments. His tenure included a gold medal at the 1930 Hamburg Olympiad. Between 1931 and 1937, he secured three individual medals, including a gold in 1931, while representing Poland at the board.
Wartime Resistance and Final Years
While in Buenos Aires for the 8th Chess Olympiad in 1939, the outbreak of war forced a return to Europe. Upon reaching France, he joined the Free France movement, serving under the pseudonym Lieutenant Cartier. After the conflict, he obtained French citizenship and continued competing, eventually winning the French Chess Championship in 1953 before his death in Paris in 1956.
Fast facts
- Born: 1887, Rostov-on-Don
- Died: 1956, 10th arrondissement of Paris
- Citizenship: Poland, France, Russian Empire
- Academic degree: Doctor of Juridical Science
- Military service: Austro-Hungarian army, Free France
- Notable work: A Breviary of Chess
- Chess title: International Grandmaster (1950)
- Burial site: Cimetière de Pantin
Questions readers ask
What military name did Tartakower use?
During his service in the French Resistance, he operated under the name Lieutenant Cartier.
Which countries did he represent at the Chess Olympiads?
He represented Poland in six Olympiads between 1930 and 1939, and France in the 1950 Olympiad.
Achievements
- Competed at 3rd Chess Olympiad, 4th Chess Olympiad and 5th Chess Olympiad
- Discipline: chess
