Joseph Henry Blackburne, known as “The Black Death,” was born on December 10, 1841, in Chorlton, Manchester, England.
He learned to play chess at the age of 17 or 18 and quickly rose to prominence in the British chess scene during the latter part of the 19th century.
Blackburne was the strongest British player for many years and was among the world’s best players, regularly ranking among the top five from 1871 to 1889 and remaining in the top 20 until 1902
Contributions and Achievements
Blackburne was famous for giving simultaneous and blindfold exhibitions, popularizing the Blackburne Shilling Gambit, and winning many brilliancy prizes due to his strong endgame skills and combinative ability.
His chess career spanned over 50 years, during which he won the British Chess Championship and several international tournaments, solidifying his reputation as one of the top players in the world
Legacy and Impact
Despite his irascible nature, Blackburne left a lasting impact on the world of chess and is remembered as one of the greatest players of the 19th century.
He is remembered as one of the greatest players of the 19th century, and his significant contributions to the game, including his success in international tournaments and his role in popularizing chess, have cemented his legacy in the history of chess
Playing Style
Wife
Joseph Henry Blackburne was married three times. He married Eleanor Driscoll on December 10, 1865, Beatrice Lapham on October 3, 1876, and Mary Jane Fox on December 16, 1880.
His second wife, Beatrice Lapham, passed away in January 1880 in St Olave Southwark, London, at the age of 26. With his third wife, Mary Jane Fox, he had a son named Frederick.
