Is Garry Kasparov the G.O.A.T of chess?

Hey everyone, this is @Atanku and I've decided to continue the blog series on some of my favorite chess players of all time! In this series, we'll be going over some very famous chess players and considering if they can be considered as one of the GOATS (Greatest Of All Time) of chess. 

Garry Kasparov's legacy as the greatest chess player of all time is a story of unparalleled brilliance, relentless determination, and transformative impact on the chess world. Born on April 13, 1963, in Baku, Azerbaijan, Kasparov's journey began with his early fascination with chess, inspired by his parents. His mother, Klara, played a pivotal role in nurturing his talent after the tragic loss of his father when Kasparov was just seven years old.
Kasparov's prodigious talent was evident from a young age. By the age of 12, he had already won the Soviet Junior Championship, and at 17, he became the world under-20 champion. His training under the legendary Mikhail Botvinnik, a former world champion, further refined his skills and strategic thinking. Kasparov's rise to prominence was meteoric, culminating in his historic victory over Anatoly Karpov in 1985 to become the youngest undisputed World Chess Champion at the age of 22. This victory marked the beginning of an era dominated by Kasparov's aggressive and innovative playing style.
The rivalry between Kasparov and Karpov is one of the most celebrated in chess history. Their matches were not just battles of skill but also psychological warfare, showcasing Kasparov's ability to adapt and outmaneuver his opponents. The 1984-85 World Championship match, which lasted 48 games, was a testament to Kasparov's resilience. Despite losing four of the first nine games, he fought back with a series of draws and wins, forcing the match to be controversially halted by FIDE. Kasparov's eventual victory in the rematch solidified his status as a chess icon.
Kasparov's dominance extended beyond his World Championship reign. He held the world number one ranking for an astonishing 255 months, a record unmatched in chess history. His peak FIDE rating of 2851, achieved in 1999, remained the highest until Magnus Carlsen surpassed it in 2013. Kasparov's ability to consistently perform at the highest level for decades is a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication.
What truly sets Kasparov apart is his impact on the chess world. He was a pioneer in integrating computer analysis into chess preparation, blending human intuition with technological precision. His famous matches against IBM's Deep Blue in 1996 and 1997 brought chess into the global spotlight, highlighting the evolving relationship between humans and artificial intelligence. Although he lost the 1997 rematch, Kasparov's willingness to embrace technology demonstrated his forward-thinking approach.
Even after retiring from professional chess in 2005, Kasparov's influence endured. He became a mentor to rising stars like Magnus Carlsen, helping them reach new heights in their careers. His literary contributions, including the acclaimed "My Great Predecessors" series, provide invaluable insights into the history and evolution of chess. Kasparov's advocacy for chess education and his efforts to promote the game globally have left a lasting legacy.
Beyond chess, Kasparov has been an outspoken political activist and writer, using his platform to champion democracy and human rights. His courage in standing up against authoritarian regimes reflects the same determination and strategic thinking that defined his chess career.
Garry Kasparov's story is one of brilliance, innovation, and an enduring impact on the chess world. His achievements, both on and off the board, have cemented his status as the GOAT of chess, inspiring generations of players and enthusiasts alike.