The 12 Greatest Entrepreneurs of Our Time

List of the greatest entrepreneurs of modern times, as compiled by Fortune Magazine (April 9, 2012 issue). These inspiring businessmen turned concepts into companies, forever changing the industries in which they work, the economy, and often the world itself. Based on social and economic impact, this list includes those who have "transformed the face of business or society in a profound way" - those who founded and sustained organizations that still thrive today. Topping the list is the late Steve Jobs, who famously ignored market research and focus groups, citing that: "It isn't the consumers' job to know what they want." See other advice from these most successful entrepreneurs below.

Honorable mentions to this list include Liz Claiborne (Liz Claiborne Inc.), Michael Dell (Dell), Anita Roddick (Body Shop), Ted Turner (Turner Broadcasting), and Oprah Winfrey (Harpo Productions).