Throughout our classes, we've heard many stories about the great women and men that have existed. Of course, some stand out more than others. Here are five people who's impact affects us everyday.

5. Thomas Jefferson

The writer of our founding document, Thomas Jefferson changed the course of history. America was one of the biggest revolutions in history, creating an entirely new government based on principles never seen before.

4. Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great, the man who cut the Gordian knot, the man who conquered all of Asia, and the man who spread Greek culture all over the world. The reason we see Buddha statues in Cambodia with Greek influence is because of this man's conquests. Truly, he is one of the most brilliant military minds of history.

3. Susan B. Anthony

She brought half of her country's population the right to vote, and this changed the way we look at politics and society as a whole. Because of her, we now have the first female nominee for President of the United States, as well as many other powerful and successful leaders like Angela Merkel and Margaret Thatcher.

2. Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was a statesman unlike any other. His tactics were able to preserve a country deeply divided on every issue, a division that had begun almost a hundred years before his presidency. Ending the Civil War, he definitely deserves a spot on the list.

1. William Shakespeare

His words changed the world, and it'll never be the same. Everyone has heard of at least one of his works, and indubitably people use his words all the time. "All that glitters isn't gold" is straight from him, and so is "break the ice." Surely, a man who's words contribute 20,000 to English's total vocabulary.