Chess: Timeless Game of Strategy and Skill

Loved by many people across the globe for its strategy and tactics, chess is a game that is both exhilarating and fun. The combination of daring moves and interesting game pieces makes it a past time for people of all ages.

The History of Chess
Considered the oldest game of skill on earth today, historians have discovered a reference to the game as far back as 600 AD. Others claim (although it is not proven) that the game dates back to 100 AD.

Began in Persia, early traders frequently brought back chess sets as souvenirs, thus introducing the game to all parts of the world. It was very popular in Europe by the 15th Century and the names and ranks of the pieces were changed to reflect the European people of that time. Today those names and ranks have become synonymous with the game of chess.

Chess Pieces Created during the feudal time of 15th Century Europe, chess pieces represent the stratified society of that era. The eight pawns represent the serfs, who were considered the property of the affluent landowners. The pawns are the least powerful of all of the pieces. The knight was a professional solider. In chess sets, the two knights are higher ranked than the pawn but their duty is still to protect those above them. These pieces, like the pawn they are often sacrificed to save more powerful pieces. The rook, which is generally shaped like a castle, is said to provide a place of refuge as a castle did in medieval times.

The church is represented in the bishops. The clergy was revered publicly and were protected by the rest of the population.

The two remaining pieces are the queen and the king. In the game of chess the Queen is the most powerful player. This is reflective of the medieval time when the queen was considered to have a strong influence on the king and often became the source of policy and law. The king is the most important game piece on the board, although not the most powerful. If the king falls, so does the kingdom and the game ends.

Chess Sets
Although most sets are based on feudal Europe, there are many themed sets that have become popular. A few of these include: the American Revolution, Civil War, popular movies and television and sports. Chess sets are also available in several forms including wood, glass, marble and even on the computer!

Chess continues to be one of the most popular games enjoyed by people of all ages and across the globe. A chess set is a wonderful gift for any friend or family member.