25 famous people who changed the world and impacted history

There are countless famous people who changed the world and made significant contributions to various fields. Their achievements have left a lasting impact on the world and continue to be studied and celebrated today. So, which people changed the world for the better?

Influential individuals often have notable achievements in their respective fields. This can include groundbreaking discoveries, artistic creations, leadership in business or politics, or contributions to social causes. Discover historical figures that changed the world.

25 famous people who changed the world

Countless individuals have profoundly impacted the world and shaped the course of history. Here are the 25 most important people in history who are widely recognized for their contributions:

1. Albert Einstein (1879-1955)

Albert was a renowned theoretical physicist who developed the theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of modern physics. As one of the top people who made a difference in the world, Einstein's impact on physics and his broader influence on society have left an indelible mark on the 20th century and beyond.

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2. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968)

Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent American civil rights movement leader, advocating for racial equality through nonviolent civil disobedience. He gained national recognition for his leadership in the Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955-1956), a successful protest against racial segregation in public buses in Alabama.

3. Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)

Nelson Mandela was a crucial figure in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa and went on to become the country's first black President. He became a global symbol of resistance to oppression, and his commitment to reconciliation and forgiveness earned him international acclaim.

4. Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948)

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a leader in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. Gandhi is regarded as a symbol of nonviolent resistance, peace, and social justice. His principles have inspired movements for civil rights and freedom around the world.

5. Marie Curie (1867-1934)

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Marie Curie was a pioneering physicist and chemist who made groundbreaking contributions to radioactivity and nuclear physics. During World War I, Curie applied her knowledge of X-rays to set up mobile radiography units, providing crucial medical services to wounded soldiers.

6. Steve Jobs (1955-2011)

Steve Jobs was a visionary entrepreneur, co-founder of Apple Inc., and a key figure in developing personal computers and consumer electronics. His innovations and leadership at Apple transformed multiple industries and continue to influence the design and functionality of consumer electronics today.

7. Rosa Parks (1913-2005)

Rosa Parks was a prominent civil rights activist known for her pivotal role in the American civil rights movement. Parks' courageous act on that Montgomery bus became a catalyst for the civil rights movement and a symbol of resistance against racial injustice. Her legacy continues to inspire those fighting for equality and justice.

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8. Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

Sir Winston Churchill was a British statesman, orator, and military leader who played a crucial role in leading the United Kingdom through the challenges of World War II. Churchill is regarded one of the most outstanding wartime leaders in history. His speeches and writings continue to be studied and admired for their eloquence and insight into the challenges of his time.

9. Mikhail Gorbachev (1931-2022)

Mikhail Gorbachev is a former Soviet statesman who served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU) from 1985 to 1991. Gorbachev played a crucial role in the transformation of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War.

10. Mother Teresa (1910-1997)

Mother Teresa, officially known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, was a Catholic nun and missionary known for her humanitarian work among the poorest in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), India. Her legacy extends beyond her charitable work. She inspired countless individuals to engage in acts of kindness and service to humanity.

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11. Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)

Leonardo da Vinci was a polymath of the Italian Renaissance, known for his contributions to various fields, including art, science, anatomy, engineering, and architecture. He worked on architectural projects, creating plans for fortifications, bridges, and even a centralized city plan.

12. Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States, serving from March 1861 until his assassination in April 1865. He is best known for leading the country through its Civil War and his efforts to end slavery. His leadership during the Civil War and commitment to ending slavery have solidified his place in history.

13. Charles Darwin (1809-1882)

Charles Darwin was a British naturalist, biologist, and geologist best known for his groundbreaking theory of evolution through natural selection. His work laid the foundation for the modern understanding of biology and had profound implications for scientific and philosophical thought. His theory of evolution is considered one of the most influential scientific theories in history.

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14. Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821)

Napoleon Bonaparte was a military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution and its associated wars. He became Emperor of the French and established the Napoleonic Empire, playing a crucial role in European history.

15. Jane Goodall (born 1934)

Jane Goodall is a renowned British primatologist, ethologist, and anthropologist best known for her groundbreaking work with wild chimpanzees in Tanzania. Her contributions to primatology and conservation have profoundly impacted our understanding of animals and their place in the natural world.

16. Bill Gates (born 1955)

Bill Gates, born William Henry Gates III, is an American business magnate, software developer, philanthropist, and author. He co-founded Microsoft Corporation, one of the world's largest and most successful technology companies. Gates is one of the people who have changed the world in modern times, and he has been recognized globally for his technology, business, and philanthropy contributions.

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17. Malala Yousafzai (born 1997)

Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. As one of the young people who changed the world, Yousafzai's resilience and dedication to promoting education for girls have made her a symbol of courage and activism worldwide. Her story has inspired millions and brought attention to ensuring that all children, regardless of gender or location, have access to quality education.

18. Walt Disney (1901-1966)

Walt Disney was an American entrepreneur, animator, film producer, and creator of the iconic Walt Disney Company. His creations, including Mickey Mouse and Disneyland, revolutionized animation and theme parks, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape popular culture. The Walt Disney Company remains a significant player in the global entertainment industry, encompassing film, television, theme parks, and more.

19. Elizabeth Cady Stanton (1815-1902)

Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a leading American social activist, abolitionist, and pioneer of the women's rights movement. Stanton is remembered as a critical figure in the women's suffrage movement, contributing significantly to the advancement of women's rights in the United States. Her dedication laid the groundwork for the eventual ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote.

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20. Thomas Edison (1847-1931)

Thomas Alva Edison was an American inventor, businessman, and prolific creator with over 1,000 patents. In 1877, Edison invented the phonograph, a device capable of recording and reproducing sound. He was one of the most famous deaf people, and his inventions and innovations profoundly impacted various industries, particularly in electric power, sound recording, and motion pictures.

21. Muhammad Ali (1942-2016)

Muhammad Ali was an American professional boxer and one of the most celebrated and iconic figures in the sport's history. Ali is regarded not only among the greatest boxers in history but also a symbol of resistance, courage, and charisma. His impact extended beyond the boxing ring, influencing social and political discussions.

22. Cleopatra (69-30 BCE)

Cleopatra VII Thea Philopator, commonly known as Cleopatra, was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. Cleopatra is often remembered for her political understanding, intelligence, and charisma. She was a skilled diplomat who navigated the complex political landscape of the Roman Republic.

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23. William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in English and world literature. Shakespeare's contributions to literature and drama have endured for centuries, making him a central figure in the cultural heritage of the English-speaking world and beyond. His plays and poetry continue to be studied, performed, and enjoyed worldwide.

24. Nikola Tesla (1856-1943)

Nikola Tesla was a Serbian-American inventor, electrical engineer, physicist, and futurist who significantly contributed to developing alternating current (AC) electrical systems. Tesla's polyphase system for generating, transmitting, and distributing AC power became the standard for electrical power systems.

25. Katherine Johnson (1918-2020)

Katherine Johnson was an African American mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to the early space programs of the United States, particularly NASA's Mercury and Apollo missions. Her achievements at NASA, groundbreaking work in mathematics, and resilience in breaking barriers have made her a symbol of inspiration and a trailblazer for women and minorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

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Above are the 25 famous people who changed the world and impacted history. These individuals have left a lasting legacy and have significantly influenced human history in various ways.

READ ALSO: Top 20 most famous South Africans of all time: who are they?

Briefly.co.za published an article about South Africa's famous people. The country has produced numerous notable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields through their activism, leadership, artistic achievements, or representation on the global stage. Discover who they are.

Source: Briefly News