Each year on July 20th, the global chess community comes together to celebrate International Chess Day. This date marks the anniversary of the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924. The idea to designate July 20 as International Chess Day was proposed by UNESCO and has been officially recognized since 1966, with the support of FIDE. As the organization representing 181 national chess federations, FIDE organizes chess events and competitions worldwide to honor this special day. By 2013, International Chess Day was celebrated in 178 countries, according to then-FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov. Furthermore, on December 12, 2019, the UN General Assembly unanimously approved a resolution recognizing this significant day.
Here are some intriguing chess facts to mark the occasion:
1. Origins: Chess originated in India during the Gupta Empire (around the 6th century). Known as “chaturanga,” the game represented military divisions: infantry (pawn), cavalry (knight), elephants (bishop), and chariotry (rook).
2. Transition: By the 15th century, chess underwent substantial changes in Europe, including the enhancement of the queen’s power, which is now the strongest piece.
3. En Passant: The unique pawn capture move “en passant” translates from French to mean “in passing.”
4. Castling: This move allows the king and a rook to move simultaneously and involves moving the king twice.
5. Stalemate: If a player cannot make a legal move but is not in check, the game is declared a draw.
6. First Chessboard: The earliest chessboard with alternating light and dark squares appeared in Europe in 1090.
7. Longest Game: The longest possible chess game can stretch to 5,949 moves!
8. “Checkmate”: The term comes from the Persian “Shah Mat,” meaning “the King is dead.”
9. Computers and Chess: The first computer program for chess, developed by Alex Bernstein in 1957, was succeeded by IBM’s Deep Blue, which defeated World Champion Garry Kasparov in 1997.
10. Number of Possible Games: There are more possible chess game variations than atoms in the known universe.
11. Queen’s Gambit: This popular chess opening, featured prominently in recent media, dates back to texts from the 1490s.
12. Pawn Promotion: Pawns reaching the eighth rank can be promoted to any piece, although most choose a queen.
13. Chess in Space: The first chess game in space occurred in June 1970 aboard Soyuz-9.
14. Young Grandmasters: Sergey Karjakin became the youngest Chess Grandmaster at age 12.
15. Foldable Chess Board: The modern foldable chessboard was invented by a priest for discreet travel.
16. Simultaneous Games: Grandmaster George Koltanowski set a record in 1960 by playing 34 games simultaneously while blindfolded.
17. Different Names: The rook is sometimes called a castle, and the bishop can be referred to as a “runner” in various languages.
18. World Chess Federation: FIDE, or the Fédération Internationale des Échecs, was founded in 1924.
19. Most Expensive Chess Set: The most expensive chess set, sold for $1.3 million, was the 1972 “J. Paul Getty” set by artist Piero Benzoni.
20. International Chess Day: Recognized by the UN, July 20th celebrates chess globally.
Why Chess is Fun: More than Just a Game
Chess isn’t just a board game; it’s a mental workout, a strategy challenge, and a timeless competition. The game enhances cognitive abilities, encourages strategic thinking, and offers endless variations. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, chess provides a satisfying challenge and a way to connect with others worldwide. It’s accessible, affordable, and can be played throughout life, making it a valuable and enjoyable pastime. Chess not only fosters critical skills but also engages players in a rich historical and cultural tradition.
