Lev Polugaevsky was a Soviet chess Grandmaster and was known for his contributions to chess opening theory. He was born on 20 November 1934 in Mogilev, then in the Soviet Union, and later in the Byelorussian SSR. He was awarded the International Master title in 1962, and the International Grandmaster title in 1962. In 1969, he was awarded the title of Honoured Master of Sport of the USSR.
Polugaevsky was known towards his creativity and originality throughout his playing style. He was one of the top 10 players in the world from the mid-1960s until the mid-1970s. His most significant achievement in chess was his victory in the USSR Chess Championship in 1969 and the Interzonal tournament in Petropolis 1973.
He was an acclaimed writer and wrote many books and articles about chess. His book “Grandmaster Preparation”, which is about Polugaevsky's experiences and thoughts at the top level of the chess world was highly celebrated.
Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Polugaevsky continued to compete in tournaments, and he represented the Soviet Union in Chess Olympiads, winning gold medals. In 1985, he retired from competitive chess, but remained active in the game as a writer and commentator. Polugaevsky struggled with health problems during his later years and passed away from a brain tumor on 30 August 1995 in Paris, France. Despite his failing health, he continued to participate in competitive chess during his final years.