Where Did Chess Originate From

By Lana Bray


Where did chess originate is a question that has found numerous and varying answers. What is worth appreciating is the fact that it has evolved over time with numerous variations along the way. It is thought to have originated from India in the sixth century but not in its current form. This means that it is approximate 1500 years old.

This game got to Persia after their interaction with Indians. Muslims picked it up and it later spread to the southern parts of Europe. The presence of Arabs in Persia is significant in spreading the game. The current shape began developing in Europe back in the fifteenth century. Nineteenth century saw an increase in tournaments with the maiden championship taking place in 1886.

The World Chess Federation was established in the twentieth century and paved way for the development of the theory of the game. The twenty first century has contributed to the growth of the game through introduction of computers analysis. Mind 1990s saw the emergence of online gaming which is responsible for it worldwide spread.

In India, the Gupta Empire referred to it as Chaturanga which represented the four divisions in their military. These divisions were cavalry, infantry, chariotry and elephantry. The pieces that have evolved today to represent these groups are the rook, bishop, knight and modern pawn. The game was adopted by the Persian Courts as one of the activities of the nobility.

The Persians gave the role and names to the checkmate and the king, which have stuck until now. The bishop and the queen were strengthened around 1500AD. Italy, Portugal, France and Spain have all had their significant contributions to the rules of the game. The situation referred to as stalemate was discussed and finalized around nineteenth century.

An Italian by the name Gioacchino Greco is considered the pioneer professional according to history books. He compared different games that were played in the same format, something that had never been done before. This led to formalization of this game with a harmonized structure for the rules and style of play.

Modern style and competition has its core in London during the tournament held in 1851. Concerns were raised about players taking too long to think about their next move. Records of over twenty minutes thinking about a single action and a total of twenty hours in a game became a concern. These concerns lead to the development of Speed and Five Minutes chess among other variants.

Penalties would be imposed for delays in making moves. The tournament in Bristol provided the first timing using a sand glass. Ever since that tournament, pendulums have been used and later, modern clocks. Champions recorded include Emanuel Lasker, Vera Menchik and Adolf Anderssen.

There is no straight answer to the question where did chess originate because it is a product of evolution. Different cultures and personalities have contributed to its current shape. Rules have been modified to make the game enjoyable, competitive and professional. This has happened over years and is worth appreciating the contribution of each person, era and association.




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