Lasker, Emanuel

Emanuel Lasker held the World Championship for 27 years (1894-1921), the longest reign in history, and was also a distinguished mathematician and philosopher. Known for his psychological approach and remarkably flexible style, he could shift seamlessly between fierce attack and tenacious defense, often confounding opponents who could not predict his play. Beyond the board, he was the first chess master to demand professional fees, helping elevate chess as a legitimate profession.