William Steinitz, an innovative thinker in chess, was the 1st Official WCC, holding the title for eight years. Known as the father of modern chess, Steinitz revolutionized the game with his emphasis on positional play and systematic planning. Entering the World Chess Championship 1894 match at the age of 58, Steinitz faced physical and mental challenges but remained a fierce competitor, showcasing his theoretical depth and resilience.
Learn more about the Classical School of Chess and Steinitz’s influence.
Lasker became the 2nd Official World Champion.
Emanuel Lasker, born on December 24, 1868, in Berlinchen, Prussia, was a 25-year-old rising star in the chess world. A mathematician and master of psychological strategy, Lasker’s pragmatic approach to chess allowed him to adapt to any opponent’s style. His innovative mindset and focus on exploiting weaknesses made him a formidable challenger. The 1894 championship marked the start of his record-setting 27-year reign as World Chess Champion—the longest in history.
The 1894 World Chess Championship was played in a «first-to-10-wins» format, with drawn games not counting toward the score. The match began in New York, continued in Philadelphia, and concluded in Montreal. Lasker’s victory was decisive, with a final score of 10–5 (+4 draws). His dominance in the Philadelphia leg of the match, where he won five consecutive games, demonstrated his superior preparation and psychological advantage.
The 1894 championship marked a generational shift in chess. Lasker’s triumph over Steinitz signaled the rise of a new era, blending Steinitz’s principles of positional play with Lasker’s emphasis on adaptability and psychology. Steinitz’s contributions to the Classical School of chess laid the foundation for modern strategic thought, while Lasker’s innovations highlighted the importance of mental fortitude and pragmatism.
Memorable Quote
«Steinitz taught us how to think, but Lasker showed us how to win.» — Richard Réti
William Steinitz – Emanuel Lasker 5 – 10 (+4 draws)
Emanuel Lasker
Sources
All sources, image credits, and content attributions are available on the main World Chess Champions page.