Garry Kasparov

Garry Kasparov: Chess Grandmaster and Political Activist

Early Life

Garry Kimovich Kasparov (born Garik Kimovich Weinstein on April 13, 1963) is a Russian chess grandmaster and former World Chess Champion. Born in Baku, Soviet Union (now Azerbaijan), Kasparov's exceptional chess talent emerged at an early age.

Chess Career

Kasparov rose to prominence in the 1980s, becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion in 1985 at the age of 22. He held the title for 15 years, during which time he dominated the sport and established himself as one of the greatest chess players of all time. Kasparov's rivalry with Anatoly Karpov was one of the most intense and iconic in chess history.

Post-Chess Career

After retiring from competitive chess in 2000, Kasparov became a political activist and human rights campaigner. He co-founded the United Civil Front, a pro-democracy movement in Russia, and has been critical of the Russian government, leading to his harassment and arrest on several occasions. Kasparov has also authored several books and has become a sought-after speaker on topics related to politics, chess, and artificial intelligence.