Dr. Siegbert Tarrasch (1862–1934)

The "Praeceptor Germaniae" – Teacher of Germany – was not only an outstanding player, but shaped the chess understanding of an entire generation. As a practicing physician in Nuremberg, he even declined a World Championship match against Steinitz in 1892. After his poor result in Leipzig 1888 he embarked on a remarkable winning streak: Breslau 1889, Manchester 1890, Dresden 1892 and Leipzig 1894 – four major tournament victories in succession. His "Textbook of Chess" became the standard work.

Tournament: Leipzig 1888 (Augustea Jubilee Tournament) · Significance: Jacques Mieses' master tournament debut! At only 23 years old he finished 3rd (4½/7). In Leipzig 1888 Tarrasch suffered his worst tournament result (2/7, 7th of 8). His response – tripling his medical practice and launching a remarkable winning streak – reveals his extraordinary character.