4. Henry Ford
Modern America, from its cities to its farthest reaches in remote rural lands, is built around the automobile, and it was Henry Ford who made the automobile affordable for everyone. Every other form of transportation relies in some way or another on cars and trucks, highways and byways are a major factor of the American economy. Ford was also an innovator regarding wage scales, knowing that his employees could be his customers should they be well paid. He became controversial for many things, including antisemitism and anti-union views, but his influence on American history is unquestionable.