10th World Champion
1969 - 1972
Boris Vasilievich Spassky was born in Leningrad (Saint
Petersburg), Russia in 1937. He learned chess as a youngster in the
Urals where he lived during the Second World War. He became
international master in 1953, and junior world champion in 1955 and
received his grandmaster title in the same year. He won the World
Championship against Tigran Petrosian in 1969 and became one of the
most popular of all champions with his naturally polite, friendly
disposition.
In 1972 American Bobby Fischer challenged Spassky for the title
of World Champion which was held in Reykjavik, Iceland. This most
publicized world championship in chess history took place during
the Cold War between the USA and the USSR. As a consequence both
players were under considerable pressure to win. When Fischer
defeated Spassky, 35 years of Soviet domination of the world
championship also ended. Spassky returned to his homeland in
disgrace.
After this match Spassky continued to play at top level and won
the 1973 Soviet championship and other international tournaments.
He still plays occasionally today and is a frequent participant in
the annual Ladies vs. Veterans competitions.
The Puzzle:
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