Golden Age Chess Tactics: Brilliance from the 1920s and 1930s

Golden Age Chess Tactics: Part 1 – Brilliance from the 1920s and 1930s

The interwar years were a golden age for chess, brimming with romantic sacrifices and deep combinations. In this two-part series, we dive into masterful tactical games that defined an era. Today we explore a razor-sharp miniature from the 1920s and a thrilling attacking masterpiece from the 1930s.

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🕰️ Game 1: Rudolf Spielmann vs. F. Sämisch, Bad Pistyan 1926

Opening: King's Gambit (C33)
Result: 1–0

Known as the "Master of Attack," Rudolf Spielmann was never one to shy away from danger. In this fiery King's Gambit, he sacrifices material early to expose the black king. What follows is a cascade of tactical blows, ending in a brilliant mating net.

• ⚔️ Watch for the bold bishop sacrifice on move 12.
• ♞ Note how the knight jumps in to cut off the king's escape.
• ♛ Spielmann's queen leads the final attack with elegance and power.

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🕰️ Game 2: Alexander Alekhine vs. Max Euwe, Zurich 1934

Opening: Queens Gambit Declined (D31)
Result: 0–1

Here Euwe wins a Queens Gambit Declined ... !

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll travel further into the 1940s and 1950s, uncovering more tactical brilliance from legends of the board.