One of the plays of genius and games played at homes, clubs and in International arena is Chess. It is not only looked upon as competition but also as exercise for your brain, but very few people are aware about the first International chess tournament and its history.

First International chess tournament organized in the history of chess was in London in May, 1851.

During these years Global boundaries were becoming short because of the development of railroads and its availability and so it seemed a good idea to organize an international chess tournament with best players of the world taking part. The man who made possible for this organization was Howard Staunton, who not only organized the event but also took part as one of the players.

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Competition was held with knock out as the person who loses a game was eliminated. In first round 16 players took part and as the part of elimination 8 of them were dropped. Games in the first round were best of three and later rounds were best of seven. Howard Staunton was one of the very good players of his time but was astounded by Adolf Anderssen who defeated him 4 to 1. Staunton had later on also challenged Anderssen to play set of 21 matches but that really never happened.

Adolf Anderssen who defeated Staunton in semi finals also won the tournament becoming the first champion of the International chess competition. By profession Anderssen was a school teacher in Germany and was famous for his attacking playing styles.

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This is how the chapter of International chess tournament started which opened the door later on for many viewers and competitors around the globe and making chess as one of the most loved games of genius.