Where did chess originate is a question that has found numerous and varying answers. What is worth appreciating is the fact that it has evolved over time with numerous variations along the way. It is thought to have originated from India in the sixth century but not in its current form. This means that it is approximate 1500 years old.

This game got to Persia after their interaction with Indians. Muslims picked it up and it later spread to the southern parts of Europe. The presence of Arabs in Persia is significant in spreading the game. The current shape began developing in Europe back in the fifteenth century. Nineteenth century saw an increase in tournaments with the maiden championship taking place in 1886.

Twentieth century has seen the formation of the World Chess Federation which has advanced the theory of play. Computers have added another dimension to this game especially the inclusion of analysis. This has seen a rise in online play and tremendous increase in continental gaming.

In India, the Gupta Empire referred to it as Chaturanga which represented the four divisions in their military. These divisions were cavalry, infantry, chariotry and elephantry. The pieces that have evolved today to represent these groups are the rook, bishop, knight and modern pawn. The game was adopted by the Persian Courts as one of the activities of the nobility.

The Persians gave the role and names to the checkmate and the king, which have stuck until now. The bishop and the queen were strengthened around 1500AD. Italy, Portugal, France and Spain have all had their significant contributions to the rules of the game. The situation referred to as stalemate was discussed and finalized around nineteenth century.

Records have it that Gioacchino Greco was the first professional, having been born in Italy. He took time to compare different styles and formats of play and draw similarity. These were the first steps towards the development of a formal game with harmonized rules and professional approach.

Modern style and competition has its core in London during the tournament held in 1851. Concerns were raised about players taking too long to think about their next move. Records of over twenty minutes thinking about a single action and a total of twenty hours in a game became a concern. These concerns lead to the development of Speed and Five Minutes chess among other variants.

Players were penalized for taking too long on a move. The game was timed for the first time in Bristol in the year 1861. Sand glass was used. Other timing devices like modern clocks and pendulums would replace the glass. Record champions in different eras included Vera Menchik, Adolf Anderssen and Emanuel Lasker.

Where did chess originate remains a question with multiple answers. Different players and cultures have contributed in their own way over centuries. The rules have changed reflecting the need to make play professional, enjoyable and competitive. One can only recognize the cultures and people behind its current state over the years.