Chess960 is a Fischer-advocated variant with 960 possible starting positions. White's pawns remain on second rank, Black's on seventh. Minor and major pieces are placed semi-randomly on first and last ranks
Born in New Orleans to wealthy lawyer father and musical mother. Learned chess by watching others, according to uncle Ernest Morphy. Graduated from Spring Hill College with law degree in 1857
Grandmaster is highest chess title awarded by FIDE, held for life. Title requires minimum 2600 rating and 33% GM opponents. About 2000 grandmasters exist, with 42 women as of 2024. Title can be revoked for cheating or ethical violations
Karpov led 4-0 after nine games in first championship match. Match ended without result due to health issues. Kasparov won games 47-48, leading to FIDE's decision to terminate
Born in Chicago in 1943 to US-born mother Regina Fischer. Started chess at age six with sister Joan. Dropped out of high school at 16 to focus on chess. Mother Regina moved to Moscow, later became a nurse and physician
Stalemate occurs when a player has no legal moves and is not in check. First recorded use in 1765, combining Middle English "stale" and "mate". Rule standardized as draw in 19th century, previously varied widely