This book is of course a classic in chess literature. Although written in archaic style using symbols no longer in general use, it is a good way for students of chess to see where so many of our principles came from. It is in this book that capablanca lays out the fundamental principle of openings that he who controls the center is in a better position to attack. It is not a book to read from cover to cover but one to page through to find little gems on which to linger.

Jose Capablanca's classic instructional manual Chess Fundamentals first appeared in 1921, the year he defeated Emanuel Lasker for the world championship title. This handbook is packed with timeless advice on different aspects of practical play and illustrated by Capablanca's own games.

Topics covered include first principles, planning, the initiative, endgame strategy, and much more. After capturing the world championship, Jose Capablanca was for a time regarded as practically invincible. However, after his upset defeat by Alexander Alekhine in 1927, Capablanca was never able to obtain a revenge match for the world title, though he remained one of the leading players during the 1930s

Publication date 1921

Contributor University of California Libraries