Today's data centers are a complex ecosystem of computing, memory, storage, networking, and power technologies that are increasingly geared to AI/ML workloads. But the GPU remains the backbone of it all. These chips have become one of the hottest commodities for tech firms building out AI infrastructure, as well as one of the most strategic resources in global affairs.

Given that, it's worth looking back at how the GPU evolved into one of the most important technologies in computing.

Jon Peddie, a leading graphics-industry analyst, has been tracking that evolution for decades. He's profiled over 30 graphics processors that have left a lasting mark on the industry. Together, those profiles trace the history of the first graphics chips to modern GPUs, which have become the standard compute engine for far more than graphics. Now we want to know: Which graphics chip was the most important step on the road to AI dominance? 

Before voting, you can check out all of the candidates below (the answers are linked to each profile) or review the complete series (The Graphics Chip Chronicles). If we overlooked the innovation you think deserves the most credit, let us know in the comments.