About Theophilus Thompson
Lived 1855 – 1881 (aged 26). Theophilus Thompson was an American chess player.
Theophilus Augustus Thompson (April 21, 1855 - Oct 12, 1881) is the earliest documented African-American chess expert recognized in the United States. In addition to competing in tournaments, he wrote a book Chess Problems: Either to Play and Mate published in 1873.
Early life Thompson was born into slavery in Frederick, Maryland, as were his parents.
Career In April 1872, Thompson witnessed the game for the first time, in a match between John K. Hanshew and another man.
He gained lasting fame for his book of endgame positions: Chess Problems: Either to Play and Mate (1873).
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Important facts
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Contemporaries
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Theophilus Thompson?
American chess player (1855–1881)
When was Theophilus Thompson born?
Theophilus Thompson was born on 21 April 1855 in Frederick.
When did Theophilus Thompson die?
Theophilus Thompson died on 8 October 1881.
What was Theophilus Thompson's occupation?
Theophilus Thompson was a chess player.
What nationality was Theophilus Thompson?
Theophilus Thompson was American.
Sources & further reading
· Wikipedia: Theophilus Thompson
· DBpedia: Theophilus Thompson
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Theophilus Thompson. https://biography.guide/theophilus-thompson/
MLA: "Theophilus Thompson." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/theophilus-thompson/.
Chicago: "Theophilus Thompson." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/theophilus-thompson/.
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