Mikhail Chigorin: The First Russian Grandmaster

By Alexander Khalifman & Sergei Soloviov

Written by Alexander Khalifman, FIDE World Champion (1999), and chess historian Sergei Soloviov, Mikhail Chigorin: The First Russian Grandmaster is a comprehensive biography and chess study of one of the most influential figures in chess history. Widely regarded as the father of the Russian School of Chess, Mikhail Chigorin revolutionized the game through his imaginative attacking style, original opening ideas, and lasting contributions to chess theory.

Combining biography, historical research, and expert game analysis, this volume traces Chigorin’s rise from a self-taught player to a world-class master, covering his legendary World Championship matches against Wilhelm Steinitz, major tournaments, and enduring influence on modern chess. Featuring annotated games, historical photographs, and archival material, it offers valuable insight into one of chess’s greatest pioneers.

Topics Covered

• Life and career of Mikhail Chigorin
• Development of the Russian School of Chess
• World Championship matches against Wilhelm Steinitz
• Annotated tournament and match games
• Attacking strategy and tactical play
• Opening innovations, including the Chigorin Defense and Chigorin Variation
• Contributions to modern chess theory
• Historical evolution of 19th-century competitive chess

Key Features

• Comprehensive biography with expert game analysis
• Written by Alexander Khalifman and Sergei Soloviov
• Annotated games, historical research, and archival material
• Explains Chigorin’s strategic ideas and playing style
• Includes rare photographs and historical documents
• Classic reference on one of Russia’s greatest chess pioneers

Recommended For

• Club players seeking strategic insights from classic games
• Tournament competitors interested in Chigorin’s dynamic style
• Serious chess students studying chess history and strategy
• Chess historians exploring the Russian School of Chess
• Collectors of classic chess literature