Deaths on March 13

Adolf Anderssen, German mathematician and chess player (b. 1818)

Born Karl Ernst Adolf Anderssen on July 6, 1818, in Breslau, then part of Prussia, this brilliant German chess master would go on to carve an indelible legacy in the history of the game. Though the formal title of "World Chess Champion" was yet to be established during his lifetime, Anderssen is widely considered to have been the world's leading player for significant periods, captivating audiences with his audacious and often spectacular attacking style. His career spanned decades, marked by both triumphant victories and challenging encounters against the era's other titans.

The Ascent to Chess Supremacy: Early Career and Landmark Victories

Anderssen's journey to the pinnacle of the chess world began to truly shine in the mid-19th century. He wasn't just a participant; he was a dominant force, particularly in the nascent international tournament scene. His breakthrough moment arrived at the momentous London 1851 chess tournament, which many regard as the first modern international chess event. Here, Anderssen demonstrated his unparalleled skill, emerging victorious and cementing his reputation as the world's premier player. This triumph positioned him squarely at the top, a position he would hold for several years.

His preeminence was further underscored by another resounding victory at the London 1862 chess tournament. These back-to-back international successes firmly established Anderssen's legacy as a tournament player of extraordinary caliber. During these periods, from 1851 to 1858, and then again from 1862 to 1866, he was generally recognized as the globe's foremost active chess player, a testament to his consistent brilliance and strategic prowess.

Challenges and Contenders: Battles with Morphy and Steinitz

Despite his unparalleled tournament record, Anderssen's reign was not without its formidable challengers. The chess world was dynamic, and new talents constantly emerged to test the mettle of the reigning master. In 1858, he faced a formidable opponent in the American prodigy, Paul Morphy. Morphy, a meteoric talent, defeated Anderssen in a highly anticipated match, temporarily shifting the perception of who held the top spot. Morphy's brief but brilliant career left a lasting mark, and his victory over Anderssen highlighted the evolving landscape of competitive chess.

Years later, in 1866, Anderssen again met his match against another rising star, Wilhelm Steinitz. Steinitz, who would eventually become the first universally recognized World Chess Champion, defeated Anderssen in a pivotal match, marking another turning point in the hierarchy of the game. These losses, however, did not diminish Anderssen's standing; rather, they underscored the incredibly high level of competition at the very peak of 19th-century chess.

Later Triumphs and Enduring Legacy

Remarkably, Anderssen continued to achieve significant success well into his later years, defying the notion that peak performance was exclusive to youth. He became arguably the most successful tournament player in Europe, consistently winning over half of the events he entered. A particularly notable triumph was his victory at the prestigious Baden-Baden 1870 chess tournament, a highly competitive event. What makes this achievement even more astonishing is that Anderssen accomplished many of these later successes when he was already over the age of 50, a testament to his enduring skill, dedication, and deep understanding of the game.

The Master of Sacrificial Play: Immortal and Evergreen Games

Today, Karl Ernst Adolf Anderssen is perhaps best remembered not just for his tournament victories, but for his breathtaking, sacrificial attacking play. His games were often works of art, characterized by daring piece sacrifices that opened lines, created devastating attacks, and ultimately led to brilliant checkmates. Two of his most famous contests, forever enshrined in chess lore, are the "Immortal Game" (played in 1851 against Lionel Kieseritzky) and the "Evergreen Game" (played in 1852 against Jean Dufresne). These games vividly showcase his unique style, where material was willingly given up for the sake of initiative, forcing moves, and a dazzling tactical finish. They remain essential studies for any aspiring chess player, demonstrating the beauty and aggression possible on the 64 squares.

An Innovator in Chess Problems and an Elder Statesman

Beyond his prowess as a player, Anderssen was also an immensely important figure in the development of chess problems. He was instrumental in driving forward the transition from the "Old School" of problem composition, which often focused on direct, brute-force solutions, to the elegance, complexity, and artistic depth characteristic of modern compositions. His influence helped shape the aesthetic and technical standards that continue to define the genre today.

Moreover, Anderssen was widely regarded as one of the most likeable personalities among chess masters. His affable nature and deep respect for the game earned him the unofficial title of an "elder statesman" of chess. His colleagues and younger players frequently turned to him for advice, guidance, or even arbitration in disputes, a testament to his character, wisdom, and fairness. He passed away on March 13, 1879, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain chess enthusiasts worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions about Karl Ernst Adolf Anderssen

Who was Karl Ernst Adolf Anderssen?

Karl Ernst Adolf Anderssen was a prominent German chess master and one of the world's leading players in the mid-19th century, known for his brilliant attacking style and significant tournament victories.

When was Anderssen considered the world's best chess player?

He is generally regarded as having been the world's leading chess player from 1851 to 1858, and again as the leading active player from 1862 to 1866, though the official title of World Chess Champion did not exist at the time.

What were Anderssen's most famous games?

Anderssen is most famous for his "Immortal Game" (1851) against Lionel Kieseritzky and the "Evergreen Game" (1852) against Jean Dufresne, both celebrated for their spectacular sacrificial attacks.

Which major tournaments did Anderssen win?

He won the great international tournaments of 1851 and 1862 in London, and later achieved success at events like the strong Baden-Baden 1870 chess tournament, often winning over half the events he entered.

Who were Anderssen's main rivals?

He lost significant matches to two of the era's other giants: Paul Morphy in 1858 and Wilhelm Steinitz in 1866.

What was Anderssen's impact on chess beyond playing?

Anderssen was an important figure in the development of chess problems, helping to transition from older styles to more elegant and complex compositions. He was also a respected "elder statesman" of the game, known for his likeable personality and often consulted for advice.