Chess: The Story Behind This Fine Art | EstheraSTEM

Chess is an ancient board game that goes back centuries. It is a board game which involves 2 players, and is sometimes called International chess or Western chess to distinguish it from related games such as xiangqi (Chinese chess) and shogi (Japanese chess).

Chess is an abstract strategy game that is played on a chessboard with 64 squares arranged in an 8×8 grid. The players, referred to as "White" and "Black", each control 16 pieces:

1 King, 1 Queen, 2 Rooks, 2 Knights, 2 Bishops & 8 Pawns.

How Is Chess Played?

White moves first, followed by Black. The game is won by checkmating the opponent's king. In other words, placing the king under threat of capture with no possible escape.

There are also several ways a game can end in a draw or stalemate.

Each Chess piece moves a certain way:

• The Queen moves diagonally, horizontally & vertically in all directions.

• The King moves one square at a time. Its movement is restricted when it's in “check” — meaning it is under threat.

• The Bishop moves diagonally in all directions.

• The Rook moves horizontally and vertically in straight lines.

• The Pawn moves one square forward at a time. From its initial position, it may move two squares forward on its first move. Upon reaching the opposite end of the board, it can be promoted to a Queen, Rook, Bishop or Knight.

• The Knight moves in an “L” shape — two squares in one direction and then one square perpendicular to that.

Brief History of Chess

The game of chess has a rich history that spans over 1,500 years. It originated in India as a game called Chaturanga. From there, it spread to Persia (modern-day Iran), where the game was changed and developed into Shatranj. After the Arab conquest of Persia, Chess spread to the Muslim world and eventually made its way to Europe through Spain and Italy. By around 1500 CE, the game had evolved into the version we know and love today.

The Playing Styles Of Chess

From the late 1700s - 1880s, Chess players focused on quick, clever moves rather than long-term plans, known as the Romantic Era of Chess.

Later came more strategic styles, including the:

• Scientific Approach

• Hypermodern Style, and

• New Dynamism

In the late 1800s, official tournaments began, and the first World Chess Championship was held in 1886. During the 1900s, chess theory advanced dramatically, and the World Chess Federation (FIDE) was formed.

A major turning point came in 1997 when a supercomputer named Deep Blue defeated World Champion Garry Kasparov. This marked the beginning of computer dominance in chess. Today, computer analysis tools are widely used by players at all levels.

In the 2000s, online chess grew rapidly, and computer engines became accessible to the public. Today, computers are stronger than humans, and online chess remains incredibly popular.

Interesting Fact
In ancient times, chess was seen as a simulation of war between two kingdoms. It also served as a medium for political symbolism, propaganda and cultural exchange.

PROMINENT FIGURES IN CHESS

1. Wilhelm Steinitz




2. Akiba Rubinstein



3. Aron Nimzowitsch



4. Jose Raul Capablanca



5. Alexander Alekhine



These individuals helped shape chess into the intellectually respected game it is today.

STEM Skills We can learn from Chess

Chess teaches a wide range of cognitive and STEM-related skills:

• Critical Thinking

• Strategic Planning

• Rational Decision Making

• Pattern Recognition, and more.

For example, a 15-year-old girl who had never played chess was an overachiever, but over time, she found it harder to concentrate or think clearly. After she began playing chess regularly, she noticed improvements in her focus, decision-making and planning skills. Chess sharpened her ability to analyze, think ahead and remain calm under pressure, such skills that are essential in the STEM field.

In short, learning and playing chess equips you with skills that align directly with STEM disciplines.
---
Remember: Chess is more than just a board game; it is a mental sport that builds skills for life. Whether you're interested in math, technology or strategy, Chess is a brilliant way to challenge your mind while having fun. (#edit)
---