International Chess Day 2022: History, origin and interesting facts

International Chess Day 2022: International Chess Day or World Chess Day is observed on July 20 every year. It was first celebrated in 1966. It was on this day in 1924 when the International Chess Federation (FIDE) was founded in Paris.

Chess: Origin and history

Chess is often considered to be one of the most ancient and intellectual games.

It is widely believed that Chess originated in India as 'Shatranj' in the 6th century. The game later made its way to Persia and eventually spread to Europe. Today, Chess is played all over the world.

It was during the 15th century when Chess in Europe evolved into its current form. It changed into a modern sport by the end of the 15th century.

Today, there are chess tournaments organised all around the world with new and intriguing variations. This year, India is hosting the 44th Chess Olympiad. The event will be held between July 28 and August 10 in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram.

The game advances reasonableness, mutual respect and can add to an environment of resistance and understanding among people and countries. It is a game that holds the privilege of changing discernments, biases and ways of behaving, as well as inspiring individuals to separate racial and political boundaries.

International Chess Day 2022: Interesting facts

1. According to the United Nations report, about 70% of adults in US, UK, Germany, Russia and India have played Chess at some point in their lives. 

2. Around 605 million adults play the game regularly.

3. Mathematically, there are more possible games of Chess than there are atoms in the Observable Universe, according to the UN website.

4. It is possible to checkmate an opponent in chess in two moves.

5. The oldest living Grandmaster is Yuri Averbakh who celebrated his 100th birthday in May 2022.