The Evolution of Chess: Early Use of Second Strategists in Tournaments and Matches

Chess, a timeless strategic board game, has witnessed significant changes in its practice over the centuries. One such notable evolution concerns the role of seconds in chess competitions and matches. This article explores the timeline of when chess players began employing others to prepare for their matches and tournaments, focusing on the pivotal Soviet chess domination following World War II.

Historical Context and Early Influences

To understand the emergence of chess seconds, we must first set the stage with historical chess giants. Before World War II, prominent chess figures such as José Raul Capablanca, Emanuel Lasker, and Alexander Alekhine did not employ seconds in tournaments or matches. Although Capablanca often played chess with his friend Savielly Tarkay, it was more of a social and friendly exchange rather than a professional strategy session. Lasker and Alekhine, too, did not have officially recognized seconds in their games.

The Post-WWII Era

With the end of World War II, the chess landscape took a significant turn as the Soviet Union began to dominate the game. This era saw the introduction of the concept of seconds in competitive chess, marking a shift in the way chess was played.

The 1948 AVRO Tournament

In 1948, the AVRO tournament was organized to determine the next world chess champion after Alexander Alekhine’s death in 1946. This was a pivotal event that heralded the modern role of seconds in chess. All major players in this tournament—Mikhail Botvinnik, Vassily Smyslov, Paul Keres, Samuel Reshevsky, and Max Euwe—had seconds accompany them. Of these players, Reshevsky remained unique for a while, as he arrived without a second. However, his situation was resolved swiftly, with Reshevsky promptly finding a suitable second upon his arrival at the venue in The Hague.

Mikhail Botvinnik, the eventual winner, and other Soviet players had a clear advantage due to their extensive use of seconds. This practice was not solely confined to the AVRO tournament; it became a standard feature in Soviet chess. The Soviet system of utilizing seconds was a complex and well-organized employment of specialists who focused on analyzing games and providing strategic insights.

Impact and Development

The introduction of seconds was more than just a strategic move; it represented a shift in the orthodoxy of chess. Western players, like Reshevsky and Euwe, initially had only one second, but eventually, they too adopted the practice. This change was gradual and marked the beginning of a new era in competitive chess.

While seconds provided valuable assistance in analyzing games, preparing opening repertoire, and strategizing during matches, they also introduced an element of complexity and strategy into the game. The relationship between the player and their second became increasingly important, reflecting a transformation in how chess players approached the game.

Conclusion

The evolution of chess around the use of seconds is a poignant example of how traditions in the game have adapted over time. The Soviet influence post-World War II played a crucial role in popularizing the use of seconds, marking a significant shift in the practice and strategy of competitive chess. As chess continues to evolve, the role of seconds remains an integral part of the game, highlighting the collaborative and strategic nature of chess at its highest levels.