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Early Egyptian inscriptions and paintings show the game being played as early as 1600 BC. William Payne wrote the first English book on the game in 1756. It was one of the first analytical looks at the game, and is still used today by the game's serious students. The game of checkers is known as Draughts (pronounced Drafts) in England. Andrew Anderson became the first Checkers World Champion in 1847, defeating James "The Herd Laddie" Wyllie of Scotland. The style of play was GAYP (Go As You Please). The style of play known as GAYP (Go As You Please) is the most commonly played version of the game. This means you are allowed to move whatever piece you wish. To prevent numerous draws and repetitious games, the style of play for competitive matches was changed to a 2-move restriction in the 1890's. In this style, a card is drawn and this predetermines the first two opening moves of the game. In 1934, the 3-move style restriction was adopted and is still played to this day, even though GAYP is still recognized by conferences and tournaments the world over. Famous people from all corners of the globe have played the game of Checkers. Boxer Jack Dempsey, former State Senator John Denvir of Illinois and Andrew Carnegie are just a few. State Senator John Denvir even co-wrote the classic "2-Move Guide
" and "3-Move Guide
" books, still available today. Dr. Marion Tinsley is widely regarded as the greatest checker player to ever play the game. Over a 67-year period, he lost only 22 games in tournaments and individual matches, and most of those came early in his career. Dr. Tinsley passed away in 1995. |
