People are usually influenced by others exceptional enough to make an impact in society. However, there are also some characters that have become influential even though they actually never existed. Here are some of the most influential people whose existence are either questionable or they were just made up.
Top 5 is Marlboro Man because he was able to influence men to smoke filtered cigarettes. Back then, cigarettes with filters were designed only for women. The Marlboro company came up with Marlboro Man in order to influence men to smoke with filters and this resulted to one of the most successful campaigns in advertising history.
Top 4 is Barbie since she has basically become the symbol of womanliness. The association of the doll to the female species is so close that it's hard to tell if it's the doll who influence little girls or it's the other way around. One thing for certain is that Barbie carries with her the female lifestyle of every generation.
Top 3 is Robin Hood since he opened the eyes of many to the unfair redistribution of wealth. Hood's advocacy calls many to rebellion especially when they see that their government are enjoying more pleasures while the citizens toil day and night. But aside from the fact that Hood's actions may just be attributed to a common thief, to say that he actually existed still leave much to debate.
Top 2 is Santa Claus because not only is he the epitome of generousity and gift giving, but he is also the reason why many kids behave during Christmas. Many historical facts and legends influence his existence but he would best be associated with Saint Nicholas, a bishop who was very generous to the poor.
Top 1 is the couple Romeo and Juliet for influencing the idea that romance and passion are key in a relationship. With its many adaptations in films, theatres and other media, they made everyone feel how it is to be in a 'perfect relationship.' Even the accidental ending fueled the ideal that tragedy makes a relationship truly romantic.
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