Every year 20 July is observed as World Chess Day to commemorate the establishment of Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) or World Chess Federation in 1924.

History of World Chess Day

World Chess Day is celebrated on July 20th every year to commemorate the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924. In 1966, UNESCO proposed the concept of World Chess Day, recognizing that chess is a game that encourages intellectual growth, critical thinking, and cultural diversity.  It is believed that the game of chess, which was once known as “Chaturanga”, dates back almost 1500 years and originated in India. The purpose of World Chess Day 2023 is to promote chess as a game for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. The Global Chess Alliance (FIDE) was established in Paris, France in 1924 by the public chess organizations of Argentina, Czechoslovakia, France, Poland, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, and Yugoslavia. The chess rules were standardized and international competitions were organized by FIDE.

Theme of World Chess Day 2023

There is no specific theme for World Chess Day 2023. The goal of teaching chess to everyone is the World Chess Day 2023 motto rather than a specific theme. Every year, the same theme is used to honor World Chess Day. Chess is a universal game that encourages fairness, inclusiveness, and respect for others. It is noteworthy in this regard because it can support a climate of tolerance and international understanding.

Facts of Chess

1. It’s a mental game. However, the game can end as quickly as two moves.
2. The longest possible chess game in terms of the number of moves is 5,949.
3. Checkmate derives from the Persian phrase Shah Mat. The phrase means “the King is dead.”
4. In 1989, a chess match between Ivan Nikolic and Goran Arsovic in Belgrade ended in a draw. It was recorded as the longest official check game and lasted 269 moves.
5. The playing board used today with the alternating light and dark squares first appeared in Europe in 1090.

Significance of World Chess Day 2023

World Chess Day 2023 is globally celebrated on July 20th every year to mark the date of the establishment of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in Paris in 1924. World Chess Day 2023 is significant as it promotes the game of chess as a tool for intellectual development, cultural exchange, and peaceful cooperation. As the strategic game spread across continents, the pieces and rules evolved. Chess is one of the most ancient, intellectual, and cultural games, with a combination of sport, scientific thinking, and elements of art. World Chess Day 2023 is celebrated around the world by chess players, enthusiasts, and organizations to promote the game of chess and its many benefits. Chess is not just a game; it is a mental workout that helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Quotes of World Chess Day 2023

• In chess, knowledge is a very transient thing. It changes so fast that even a single mouse slip sometimes changes the evaluation” — Viswanathan Anand
• “Chess makes men wiser and clear-sighted.” — Vladimir Putin
• “Chess is the gymnasium of the mind.” – Blaise Pascal
• “The beauty of chess is it can be whatever it wants to be. It transcends language, age, race, religion, politics, gender, and socioeconomic background.” – Anonymous

Frequently asked questions about World Chess Day

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