Alexei Alexeivich Troitzky is known among chess fans for his analysis of two knights vs. pawn, the conclusions of which are summarized in the famous "Troitzky line". What chess fans probably don't realize is just how amazing his achievement really was - I know I didn't.
Hans Ree's fine essay* has cured me of my ignorance, and I'm grateful - Troitzky's achievement deserves recognition, and gratitude as well from those of us whose careers started in the pre-tablebase era. I encourage you all to have a look - it's a very good read.
*This direct link will only work until Ree's June 2007 essay goes up. You'll then want to go
here and select the May 2007 column.