American chess player Reuben Fine was born on 11 October 1914 in New York. His peak World Ranking was 1st (in 6 different months from October 1940 and March 1941). According to Chessmetrics his highest rating is 2762. He was one of the best 10 chess players of the world between 1936 and 1942.

He participated in three Chess Olympiads between 1933 and 1937 competing for the United States. In 1933 he won individual silver medal, in 1937 he won individual gold medal. His team won gold medal in all three tournaments.

Interesting facts:

After World Champion Alekhine died in March 1946, FIDE had to face a new situation as no defending champion died before. To award the title FIDE organised a championship where they invited Fine as well. Fine however declined to participate in the championship. His motivation is still a basis for debates.

After the World War II he received his doctorate in psychology from the University of South-Carolina.

He died on 26 March 1993 in New York at the age of 78.