History of Chess

The story behind the oldest game in the world

Chess is widely believed to be the oldest game of skill in the history of mankind. Historians estimate that chess originated in what is now northern India or Afghanistan sometime before 600 AD.

The oldest written references to the game of chess date from that era, but there are unverified claims that suggest that the history of chess stretches back as far as 100 AD.

Persian pedigree

The history of chess dates back to ancient Persia, where the terms "chess boards" and "checkmate" found their origins. "Shah," the Persian word for king, was translated over the history of chess into, among other variations, the Old French (e)sches, plural of (e)schek, which translated into English means "check."

From The Saxon and Modern English term "chess boards" is derived. The word "checkmate" (used to signify victory over the opponent's king) originated from the Persian "shah mat," which means, "the king (shah) is dead (mat)."

Chess today

Today, chess is played worldwide. The different playing techniques, chess sets sizes and styles, and levels of competition appeal to people of all ages and nationalities.

The different types of chess sets can reflect a particular player's style and tastes in art. Chess sets come in many sizes and colors but the challenging and fun appeal of the game always remains constant.

Throughout the history of chess, it has remained a beautiful game to watch and play.

More information on chess sets