Seunfunmi Joshua
Chess has witnessed numerous exceptional Black players who have not only made significant contributions to the game but have also achieved high ratings.
The game of chess boasts a rich history, and it is crucial to recognize the trailblazers who have paved the way for other black chess players.
Theophilus Thompson, an African-American player, achieved remarkable success in the mid-19th century. His book, “Chess Problems: Either to Play and Mate,” published in 1873, showcased his exceptional skills and contributed significantly to chess theory.
Over the years, we have seen more and more Black chess players come through the ranks to become grandmasters of the great game.
In today’s blog, let’s examine these 5 black people in the history of chess to have ever attained the Grandmaster title.
Grandmaster Maurice Ashley (USA)
Maurice Ashley is a chess player from the United States who became a grandmaster in 1999, making him the first African-American to achieve this honor. He’s famous for playing in a bold and exciting way and for helping to make chess more popular, especially in cities.
Ashley’s work has encouraged many people from different backgrounds to enjoy and excel at chess.
Grandmaster Pontus Carlsson (Sweden)
Pontus Carlsson, born in Colombia and adopted by Swedish parents, is one of the few Black chess grandmasters in the world. He earned his grandmaster title in 2007.
He has represented Sweden in various international competitions.
Carlsson is known for his strategic and methodical playing style. Carlsson’s hard work and success have made him well-respected in the chess world.
Grandmaster Kenny Solomon (South Africa)
Kenny Solomon became South Africa’s first chess grandmaster in 2014, making history as the first African to do so. Solomon became popular for his smart and strategic way of playing. He has competed in many tournaments around the world and has helped promote chess in Africa.
He has represented South Africa in multiple Chess Olympiads.
Grandmaster Amon Simutowe (Zambia)
Amon Simutowe, a chess grandmaster from Zambia, achieved his grandmaster title in 2007, marking a significant milestone as Zambia’s first grandmaster and the first from sub-Saharan Africa. Known for his aggressive and tactical approach to the game, Simutowe has represented Zambia in numerous international chess competitions and won numerous African Chess Championships.
His accomplishments have earned him respect in the chess community, particularly in Africa.
Grandmaster Bassem Amin (Egypt)
Bassem Amin is a chess grandmaster from Egypt, who has achieved remarkable success throughout his career.
He holds the title of the highest-rated black chess player ever, with a peak rating of 2718.
Amin has represented Egypt in many top-level international tournaments, consistently performing at a high level.
His achievements have not only brought recognition to Egypt but have also inspired chess players worldwide.
Final Thoughts
These five grandmasters have left a lasting impact that goes beyond just their wins. They showed incredible skill and commitment to chess, breaking barriers for other black players. Their stories show how determined and talented black chess players are, inspiring more people to play chess with courage and pride.
