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Love them, hate them but there are many influential people in America and in my opinion the individuals who should be on that list is considerably obvious. We may not agree with their point of view, their politics or they may just out an out be annoying to us, but that doesn't negate the change they have had on our society as a whole either for better or for worse. In no particular order, my picks for the five most influential people.

1. Oprah Winfrey is has most definitely changed the landscape of America. From influencing people to read more to tugging at our heart strings until we give, Oprah has had a profound impact on society as a whole. A mere mention of an book on her show sends sales soaring and any cause brought to our attention by her is immediately a front burner issue. The woman has clout, connections and she gets things done.

2. Al Gore really increased his exposure and influence at a rapid pace this past year. Not only has he brought global warming back to the attention of millions of Americans, but he did it in an entertaining and endearing way. His participation in the award winning film " An Inconvenient Truth" showed the public another more personable and likable side to him. Leaving millions of Americans wondering why he is not currently taking up residency in the White House.

3. Bill Gates, it is no surprise that this self professed geek makes the list. After all every day when millions of individuals around the world trudge off to their office and power up their computer, his creation chimes that ever so familiar " windows" tune. Wealthier beyond our wildest dreams, but generous at the same time. This self made billionaire is the perfect example of the American dream realized.

4. George W. Bush, now in my humble opinion his impact on society as a whole has been immense, but not in a positive way. Not much needs to be said about why George Bush has been impactive. In fact one can just turn on their television set at any given time and see the impact he has had on the world as a whole. Regardless of what I may think of him there is something to be said for a man who can whole heartedly stand behind his explanation for a war, then just as whole heartedly defend and stand by another explanation for the same war, all the while maintaining supporters.

5. Bill Clinton has had an immense impact on our society. Despite his personal indiscretions, he remains one of the most beloved presidents of our time. Loved the world over, his mere presence within an issue gives it sudden precedence. Keeping company with him suddenly gives an individual a certain credibility and notoriety. Regardless of the embarrassment he suffered for his marital indiscretions, the general public will always view Bill Clinton as an upright and caring public figure with the best interest of the American public close to his heart.

Again, love them or hate them, all of these individuals have managed to have a profound impact on the current landscape of society. We may disagree on the reasons why or whether or not we like or dislike them, but their presence and impact collectively are here to stay

Learn more about this author, Hillary Marshall.
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