Theophilus Augustus Thompson 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==
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). == References ==