The game of chess was born from an Indian game called chaturanga,
before the 600s AD. From then on the game was spread throughout Asia and Europe over many centuries.
The modern game of chess we know today was not created until the 16th century. Even then the pieces used
today were not standardized until the 19th century. Official worldwide chess championships were first held
in the 19th century as well. Chess is an old game, but it did not gain its popularity immediately.
Today, every single person knows of chess. Whether they know how to play it or not, they all know of the game.
The game has been played for over 3,000 years and is still very popular today.
Source: https://www.chess.com/article/view/history-of-chess