History
Checkers, known as Draughts in Britain, is one of the world's oldest board games, with a history spanning over 5,000 years. Archaeological evidence from the ancient city of Ur in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) reveals checkers-like games dating to 3000 BCE. Similar games appeared independently in ancient Egypt—a game called Alquerque was found in temple carvings dating to 1400 BCE.
The modern 64-square version of checkers evolved in 12th-century France, where players combined the Alquerque game with the 8x8 chessboard. The French called it "Fierges" or "Ferses." By the 15th century, mandatory captures were introduced, leading to the name "Jeu Forcé." The game spread throughout Europe, with each country developing regional variations.
English Draughts (American Checkers) was standardized in the 16th century. The first book on the game was published in Spain in 1547. Checkers became enormously popular in England and was brought to America by early colonists, where it became a beloved pastime.
The first World Championship was held in 1847. For over a century, human champions dominated until 2007, when the Chinook computer program solved checkers—proving that perfect play results in a draw. Despite this computational solution, checkers remains popular for its accessibility and strategic depth. The game teaches important skills: pattern recognition, forward planning, and positional thinking.
Around the world
- Draughts
- Straight checkers
- Fierges
- Dama
- Dammen
- Damas
- Warcaby
- Shashki
Strategy
Checkers strategy rewards patience, piece coordination, and positional understanding. Here are key concepts to master:
Control the Center
Central squares offer more mobility and attacking options. Pieces on the edges have limited movement choices and are easier to trap. Aim to occupy and control the central dark squares.
Maintain a Strong Back Row
Don't rush to advance your back-row pieces. They protect against enemy pieces becoming kings. However, don't be so passive that you lose the initiative.
Create King Threats
Position pieces to threaten promotion. Even if your opponent blocks one attempt, the threat forces defensive moves and may create weaknesses elsewhere.
The Power of Kings
Kings are worth roughly two regular pieces in strategic value. Trading one of your men for an opponent's king is usually favorable. Conversely, protect your kings and use them actively.
Piece Coordination
Pieces support each other when positioned on adjacent diagonals. An isolated piece is vulnerable; connected pieces are strong. Build "bridges" of mutually supporting pieces.
The "Dog Hole"
Avoid getting pieces trapped in the double corners (the corners of the board). Pieces there have limited mobility and can become liabilities.
Forcing Sequences
Look for combinations where captures are mandatory. Set up positions where your opponent must capture into a losing position. Calculate multiple moves ahead.
Endgame Technique
With few pieces remaining, king activity becomes crucial. Learn standard endgame patterns: two kings can usually beat one, but the win requires precise technique. Practice these positions until they become automatic.
Study Opening Systems
Common openings have names and established theory. Learning a few openings helps you reach playable middlegame positions without falling into known traps.
Variations
Checkers has spawned many regional and rule variations worldwide:
International Draughts (Polish Draughts)
Played on a 10x10 board with 20 pieces per side. Kings can move any distance diagonally (flying kings). When capturing, you must take the maximum number of pieces. The most popular variant for serious competition in Europe.
Brazilian Draughts
Similar to International Draughts but played on an 8x8 board. Features flying kings and maximum capture rules.
Russian Draughts
8x8 board where men can capture backwards (but not move backwards). A piece can be crowned mid-sequence if it passes through the king row during a capture.
Canadian Draughts
Played on a 12x12 board with 30 pieces per side. Flying kings. The largest standard checkers variant.
Italian Draughts
Men cannot capture kings, and you must capture with a king if possible rather than a man. Some capture priority rules differ from English Draughts.
Turkish Draughts (Dama)
Pieces move orthogonally (horizontally and vertically) rather than diagonally. Played on all 64 squares. A completely different feel from diagonal variants.
Pool Checkers
Popular in the American South, men can jump backwards (but not move backwards). This adds tactical complexity to the standard game.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, in standard checkers (English Draughts), if you can capture, you must. If you have multiple capture options, you may choose which one to take. This mandatory capture rule is fundamental to checkers strategy.