Garry Kasparov

Garry Kasparov has become one of the world’s most acclaimed chess players since joining the game in 1980. Born on April 13, 1963, in the Soviet Union, Kasparov was a prodigy from an early age, winning the World Junior Championship at age 16. In 1985, at the age of 22, he became the world chess champion, the youngest champion in chess history.

Over the course of his lauded career, Kasparov earned numerous titles and records, including 196 classic games victories and 200 rapid/blitz/exhibition victories. He was the world chess champion from 1985-2000, with a five-year break from 1993-1998 when he competed against IBM’s Deep Blue computer in a highly publicized “man vs. machine” match. He was the world's No. 1 rated player for 255 consecutive months and became the highest-rated player ever in July 1999. He played against 60 grandmasters in the 80-game piece of work, The Great Predictions', where he won 39 and drew 21.

Kasparov has long been considered one of the best chess players in history, but his influence has extended far beyond the world of chess. He is an avid writer, having published novels, autobiographies, and political commentaries. His books deal with a variety of themes, including his chess career, the development of Soviet Union politics, and his views on the future of chess. His writings have made him a recognized author in the fields of history, economics, and social science, and his books have been translated into over eighteen languages.

Kasparov has transferred his chess successes to other arenas, most notably as a political and human rights advocate. He is the Chairman of the Renew-Democracy Initiative, an international sustainable liberal democracy and human rights organization. He has been an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, leading to being barred from running for president in 2018. He has also devoted a large portion of his time to advocating for the release of political prisoners and promoting causes such as the Fight for Free Elections.

Kasparov’s tenure as a political leader has been equally influential, having been awarded numerous honors and awards, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush in 2005 and honorary knights from the United Kingdom and France. Kasparov’s personal achievements have also served to inspire other people, especially talented young chess players, to pursue their own dreams of success.

The life and career of Garry Kasparov have shown the world that success is possible in any field. His enthusiasm and drive towards his goals, whether it be in chess, politics, or human rights, have inspired and motivated many. He is a role model and leader, demonstrating how to effectively achieve greatness while helping to promote the greater good. He has written numerous best-selling books, hosted the Kasparov Chess Show, and even hosts a show called “Kasparov versus the World”. With numerous awards and honors, Garry Kasparov is a true icon, who will continue to influence generations to come.