Introduction
Chess is a popular board game that has been played for centuries. It is a game of strategy, skill, and intellect, where players use their pieces to attack and defend their opponent´s pieces in an attempt to achieve the goal of checkmating the opponent´s king. Over the years, various international organizations and governing bodies have been established to regulate and organize chess tournaments at different levels. These organizations have also devised a system of titles that are awarded to players based on their performances and achievements in the game. In this article, we will be discussing the lowest title in chess and understanding the hierarchy of titles in the chess world.
The History of Chess Titles
The concept of chess titles began in the 19th century when one of the strongest players of that era, Wilhelm Steinitz, was given the title of “chess champion of the world.” This title was not an official one, but it marked the beginning of a tradition of awarding titles to players who achieved remarkable success in the game. With the increase in the popularity of chess and the rise of international tournaments, various chess federations and organizations were formed. These organizations started awarding titles to players based on their performance and ranking in tournaments. Initially, the titles were given based on a player´s success in a single tournament. Still, as chess evolved, the criteria for earning these titles have become more comprehensive and stringent.
Today, the most prestigious titles in chess are conferred by the World Chess Federation (FIDE), a governing body that governs international chess competitions. FIDE titles are recognized and respected worldwide, and players must meet certain criteria to be awarded these titles.
The Hierarchy of Titles in Chess
FIDE titles can be broadly divided into two categories: chess titles and chess rating titles. Chess titles are awarded based on a player´s performance in tournaments, while chess rating titles are based on a player´s rating in the FIDE rating system. Below is the hierarchy of titles in chess, from the lowest to the highest:
- Candidate Master (CM)
- FIDE Master (FM)
- International Master (IM)
- Grandmaster (GM)
FM is the basic title, followed by IM, and then GM, which is the highest title that can be awarded to a chess player. These titles are permanent and do not expire, meaning a player who has been awarded a GM title will always be recognized as a GM, even if their rating decreases in the future.
The Lowest Title in Chess: Candidate Master (CM)
The lowest title in chess is the Candidate Master (CM) title. It is the first title awarded by FIDE, and it is usually achieved by players who have participated in several tournaments and have a moderate level of skill and experience. To qualify for the CM title, a player must meet the following criteria:
- Attain a minimum FIDE rating of 2200, or perform at a specified level in a specific tournament
- Obtain three norms, which are specific performances in distinct events, such as local, national, or continental tournaments
- Have a valid FIDE ID
If a player meets all these requirements, they can apply to FIDE for the CM title. Once awarded, the CM title can never be taken away, even if the player´s rating falls below 2200 in the future.
The Significance of the CM Title
While the CM title is the lowest in the hierarchy of titles, it is still a significant achievement for any chess player. It signifies that the player has a good understanding of the game, has participated in several tournaments, and has performed well enough to meet the title´s requirements. Moreover, the CM title is a stepping stone for players who aspire to achieve higher titles in the future. It also gives players the opportunity to compete in higher-level tournaments, where title norms can be achieved for higher titles like FM and IM.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the lowest title in chess is the Candidate Master (CM) title, awarded to players who have met specific criteria set by FIDE. While it may not be the most prestigious title, it is still a significant achievement for any chess player and serves as a stepping stone towards higher titles in the chess world. Chess titles not only recognize a player´s skills and achievements, but they also provide opportunities for players to compete in higher-level tournaments and further improve their game.
