Steinitz, William (Wilhelm)

Steinitz was the first World Champion, holding the title from 1886-1894. A descendant of a prominent rabbinic family, Wilhelm learned the game from his rabbinic tutor.

Wilhelm was born into poverty, and had dreams of becoming an engineer, but he suffered from bad eyes and lungs, forcing him to give up his engineering studies in Vienna, and rely instead on the scanty income chess brought him.

After conquering the world title in 1886, Steinitz remained unbeatable for the next 27 years, eventually losing the crown to Emanuel Lasker, an emerging chess star. Wilhelm's health continued to decline as he grew older. He died penniless in a charity ward after a nervous breakdown.

Birth and Death Dates:
1836 - 1900

Career Highlights:

First World Champion: 1886 - 1894.

Once a flourishing chess-master, Steinitz edited the International Chess Magazine for 15 years.

William settled in New York in 1883, opened a chess academy, and wrote chess articles for leading newspapers.

Origin:
Austria (b. Prague)

Category:
World Champion

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