Check it mate! Here is the incredible long withstanding origins behind the coveted chess set

Chess has become increasingly popular over the past year as a result of Netflix’s “The Queen’s Gambit.” The beloved game has an extensive history of winning the hearts of gamers across the world, with a broad number of competitions organised in many different countries. You can feel like the king or queen you are by beholding a glorious chess set to play either with friends, family, and other competitors. In this article, we will go through the incredible history behind the chess set.

The history of the chess set 

Eastern origins 

The widely popular game has found its way originating from a variety of different countries across the globe, with a similar board being found from the UK, China, Russia, to even Africa, to name a few. The oldest version of chess is Chaturanga which it’s origins come from India which became highly admired by the 7th century. It was thought to be like chess as a result of each of the pieces having a specific function in the game. However, a dice was used to play the game and utilized a 64-square board. The game crossed over to Afghanistan, Pakistan, and other parts of Asia in 600 CE. In 750 CE, the game reached China creating the most beloved version in the East known as Xiangqui. In the 11th century, the Chinese version of chess landed in Korea and Japan.

Its expansion to the west 

A version of the Eastern version travelled far and wide to Europe in Persia. During the Byzantine Empire, this time had led to the Muslims bring the beloved game to North Africa, Sicily, and Spain. The Vikings played the game taking to England and Iceland, making them the most responsible for the existence of the chess pieces. This set was found on the Isle of Lewis surrounding Scotland in 1831. Originally, chess and dice games were forbidden by religious leaders and kings. King Louis IX banned the game in 1254 in France. However, the game heightened in popularity as a result of its association with power, money, and knowledge. This game became treasured among King Henry I, Henry II, Phillip II of England, Ivan IV of Russia, and many other royal figures. By the 15th century, the game became a key activity in the royal world.

How it is currently played 

The game has had a long history to get where it is today. It was not until the 1800’s that chess became associated with its competition. This competition created tension between countries grouping together to show their love for the game. In 1857, the competition ignited in New York leading to its popularity in America. The game took a while for female players to become accepted, with the first female to become popular in 1927 with Vera Menchik, who won the first Women’s World Championship. The game has now become popular with anyone allowed to play the game, allowing you to behold a chess set piece in your board game arsenal. There is a wide variety of options to choose from of different chess styles, shades, and designs.

In Summation 

The benefits are endless by having a chess set to call your own. It has an incredible story, with an incredible journey making its way to being a household board game. This game took the contribution of many individuals in order for it to be the way it is today. You’ll definitely keep this game close to your “chess-t” adding on to the long saga of the beloved board game.