Irving Chernev is recognized as one of the greatest chess writers of all time. After learning how to play chess from his father at age 12, Chernev grew to reach National Master satus and competed in the 1942 and 1944 U.S. Championships. Though he was a talented player, his true passion was to teach chess through the written word. Kenneth Harkness is known for being central to the administration of U.S. chess.

Throughout his career, Harkness served as the business manager of the U.S. Chess Federation, the precursor to Chess Life. Additionally, he created the U.S. ranking system.