Henry Edward Bird (1829-1908) (jul 14, 1828 – apr 11, 1908)

Description:

Was an English chess player, author and accountant. He wrote the books "Chess History and Reminiscences" and "An Analysis of Railways in the United Kingdom".

He popularized the chess opening now called Bird's Opening (1.f4), as well as Bird's Defense to the Ruy Lopez (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 Nd4). Bird's Opening is considered sound, though not the best try for an opening advantage. Bird's Defense is regarded as slightly inferior, but "trappy".