World Chess Championship 1891

In the World Chess Championship 1890 World Champion Wilhelm Steinitz defended his title successfully against Isidor Gunsberg.

Prehistory

Isidor Gunsberg won several top-class chess tournaments, so in Hamburg ( 1885), Bradford (1888 ) and London ( 1888). When New York Tournament 1889 he finished in third place just half a point behind the tournament winner Chigorin. An organized by the Chess Club Havana match against Chigorin ended 1890 with 9:9.

After that Steinitz was willing to accept Gunsberg as opponents.

Organization and rules

The financing was difficult: As usual, the players should get a share of the stakes, but Gunsberg could only move a few supporters to bet. Steinitz then agreed to play for less money.

The orientation took over the Manhattan Chess Club. The match was scheduled for 20 games.

Course

The match began on 19 December 1890. Contrary to expectations, it was pretty balanced. After five games Gunsberg even led 3-2. But then Steinitz emerged victorious on 22 January 1891 in the 19th game by an agreed draw the crucial half-point to 10 ½: 8 ½.

The last ( remisierte ) game was then played out by the two opponents for fun, Steinitz they eventually won.