Kasparov Jailed for 5 Days

Kasparov, one of Putin’s harshest critics, and other opposition politicians have come under growing pressure before Dec. 2 parliamentary elections.

Determined to see Putin’s party win an overwhelming victory in the elections, the Kremlin has shown little tolerance for any parties or politicians that challenge its rule.

“We should overcome the fear that the regime uses to sustain itself,” Kasparov told the crowd. “For the Putin regime, our country is just a source of enrichment.”

A calculated move from a true chess champion - one of the greatest. Unfortunately, no matter how good you are going to war with someone across a chessboard, there’s always the chance that they’re going to get angry and just whack you with a big stick.

Back in 1996 I had tickets to see Kasparov play Deep Blue in Philadelphia, but I was unfortunately unable to go. It’s sad because it was (though more important at the time) a real piece of history and technology melting together. I always liked Kasparov, politics aside, it’s sad to hear of someone as intelligent and accomplished as he is getting beaten on the ground like a dog because he decided to speak freely.

Don’t ever take your rights for granted in America. Ever.