American Chess Day
American Chess Day is celebrated every year on September 1st to honor the timeless and legendary game of chess. Chess is a game that players of all ages and genders love because it combines strategy and skill.
Chess is often referred to as “The Game of Kings” and is played on a checkered board with 64 squares between two opponents. A mind-boggling battle of wits while maneuvering the pieces sparks happiness and curiosity with every move.
American Chess Day should not be confused with International Chess Day which is on July 20 or National Chess Day on every second Saturday in October.
Origin of American Chess Day
American Chess Day has been celebrated since September 1, 2018, offering fans in the U.S. a dedicated day to revel in their love for chess. This day provides an opportunity to appreciate the game’s rich history and to engage in activities that highlight the intellectual and strategic aspects of chess.
History of American Chess Day
European Settlers were the one who introduced Chess in the United States, and it gained popularity during the 19th century especially in clubs and coffeehouses. The early growth of American Chess witnessed the growth of popular figures like Paul Morphy, who is also very often considered the first American chess prodigy.
Morphy's victory at the 1857 American Chess Congress and his successful European tour made a significant impact in the country. Another influential figure from this era, Wilhelm Steinitz, an Austrian who became an American citizen was the first official World Chess Champion.
Steinitz’s contributions to chess theory and his systematic approach greatly influenced the development of the game. In the early 20th century, American chess grew rapidly with popular players like Frank Marshall and Samuel Reshevsky.
Marshall, U.S. Chess Champion from 1909 to 1936, was known for his aggressive style and the Marshall Attack opening. Reshevsky, a chess prodigy, won the U.S. Chess Championship eight times and competed internationally from the 1930s to the 1960s.
The 1960s and 1970s were highlighted by Bobby Fischer, whose 1972 World Chess Championship win against Boris Spassky brought significant attention to American chess and had a global impact.
The late 20th century saw strong players like Walter Browne, a six-time U.S. Chess Champion, and Larry Christiansen, a three-time champion known for his aggressive style.
In the 21st century, prominent American chess players include Hikaru Nakamura, known for his skill in rapid and blitz formats; Fabiano Caruana, who competed for the World Chess Championship in 2018; and Wesley So, who has achieved notable success in both national and international tournaments since becoming a U.S. citizen.
Ways To Celebrate American Chess Day
To celebrate American Chess Day, consider hosting a chess tournament with friends and family or participating in an online event. Introducing someone new to chess can be a rewarding way to share your passion for the game. If you’re in New York City, visit the Chess District to experience the game’s vibrant culture.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, use this day to appreciate chess’s rich history and intellectual challenge. Share your chess activities on social media with #AmericanChessDay to connect with others and enjoy the game’s endless opportunities for learning and fun.
Chess Trivia That Will Checkmate Your Mind
- The term “Checkmate” comes from the Persian phrase “Shah Mat,” meaning “the King is dead.”
- Theoretically, the longest possible chess game is 5,949 moves.
- The folding chessboard, invented by a priest who was forbidden to play chess, resembled two books on a shelf.
- In 1988, Deep Thought became the first computer to defeat an international grandmaster.
- The largest public chess library is the John G. White Collection at the Cleveland Public Library, housing over 32,000 chess books.
