Chess Rivals of the 19th Century - Annotated by Tony Cullen (Paperback)

About the Book

""Many historical chess books focus on individual 19th century masters and tournaments yet little is written covering the full scope of competitive chess through the era. This volume provides a comprehensive overview, with 300 annotated games analyzed by the players and checked by powerful chess engines. Players such as Max Lange and Cochrane, known to the chess public only by the name given to a fierce attack or gambit, are brought to life. Fifty masters are each given their own chapter, with brief biographies, results and anecdotes and an endgame section for most chapters."-Provided by publisher"--

Book Synopsis

Many historical chess books focus on individual 19th century masters and tournaments yet little is written covering the full scope of competitive chess through the era. This volume provides a comprehensive overview, with more than a third of the 300 annotated games analyzed by past masters and checked by powerful engines.

Players such as Max Lange and Cochrane, known to the chess public only by the name given to a fierce attack or gambit, are brought to life. Fifty masters are each given their own chapter, with brief biographies, results and anecdotes and an endgame section for most chapters.

Review Quotes

"the book does a good job of demonstrating some fascinating games...recommended"-The Chess Journalist

"A good read...carefully researched, thoroughly illustrated, indexed, etc.-everything that makes for a great book."-American Chess Magazine

"A real treasure trove...Anyone looking to escape the present day, if only for a little while, would do well to purchase a copy"-Chess

"This book is culturally enriching...a lovely resource...I thoroughly enjoyed it...I believe that it deserves a place on any chess players' bookshelf."-Chess Book Reviews.

"This deeply important, useful book provides a comprehensive overview of competitive chess throughout the 19th century....The scope of this volume makes it immensely valuable, providing key insights on the century's strongest players... This is a splendid, meticulously researched work....essential"-Choice

"When I picked up the book the first thing I liked was the superb cover illustration of a host of 19th century rivals. Then on opening up the generous-sized pages I couldn't help but notice that the typography and page make-up are amongst the very best McFarland has offered over the years. The new use of larger diagrams and chess figurine fonts, together with an attractive layout and portraits of the players, makes for a pleasurable and easy read of both the biographical text and analysis of games, in which both original and computer-checked annotations are skillfully harnessed. ... Because the author has displayed excellent judgment in his choice of material, every page has impact and well and truly transports the reader back in time to the Victorian era, when the smoke-filled salon of Simpsons-in-the-Strand was the chess citadel of the world. The extent of the author's research is very much in evidence"-British Chess Magazine

About the Author

FIDE Candidate Master, Tony Cullen played chess for the strong London Central YMCA Chess Club and organized tours playing team matches against strong opposition in various European cities. He lives in London.