Ely Culbertson

Date of Birth: July 22, 1891

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: December 27, 1955

Biography

Ely Culbertson was a prominent American bridge player, writer, and promoter who significantly influenced the world of contract bridge. He was born in Poiana Vărbilău, Romania, to an American mining engineer and his Russian wife. Culbertson’s early life was marked by extensive travels and an eclectic education, which spanned multiple countries and languages. He eventually settled in the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen. Culbertson’s contributions to bridge are extensive. He wrote several influential books on the subject, including “Contract Bridge Blue Book” and “The Gold Book of Contract Bridge.” His expertise and charismatic promotion of the game helped popularize bridge in the United States during the 1930s. He also developed the Culbertson System, a set of bidding conventions that became widely adopted. Known for his flamboyant personality, Culbertson was a controversial figure who often engaged in public disputes with other bridge authorities. Despite this, his impact on the game is undeniable. He organized the famous “Bridge Battle of the Century” in 1931, a high-stakes match that drew significant media attention.

5 Interesting Facts about Ely Culbertson

1. Ely Culbertson was fluent in seven languages, including English, French, Russian, and German.

2. He authored over 50 books and pamphlets on bridge and other topics.

3. Culbertson was a keen advocate for world peace and proposed a plan for international disarmament.

4. He played a key role in establishing the first World Bridge Federation.

5. Culbertson’s “Bridge Battle of the Century” against Sidney Lenz was a major media event, covered by newspapers and radio.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ely Culbertson

1. “The first principle of bridge is to bid your hand to its full value – and no more.”

2. “Bridge is essentially a social game, but unfortunately it attracts a lot of antisocial people.”

3. “In bridge, as in life, you must play the cards you are dealt.”

4. “The real test of a bridge player isn’t in keeping out of trouble, but in escaping once he’s in.”

5. “To play bridge is to engage in a partnership of thought and strategy.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ely Culbertson’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million in the 1930s, equivalent to approximately $20 million today when adjusted for inflation.