Best Of 2014 The Most Influential People of 2014  

The most influential people of 2014 changed the world through politics, religion, activism, and entertainment. This list ranks the most powerful and trendy celebrities, politicians, and notable public figures from the entire year. From the Pope, to Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler), to Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington), this list of the most influential figures of 2014 includes all of your favorite icons who made this year what it was.

Beyonce was seemingly crowned Queen of the Universe in 2014, just as Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift, and Pharrell continued to influence the world through their both their music and their offstage antics (whether good or bad). The Pope led the Catholic Church to new ideas, including more inclusive attitudes towards the gay community, while Apple's Tim Cook made history as the only openly gay CEO of a US company.

Which influential public figures mattered the most in 2014? Global trendsetters like Edward Snowden stand alongside feminist faces that shaped the year like Lena Dunham and Elizabeth Warren. From Jimmy Fallon running late night, to Vladimir Putin running the world, these important individuals were among the most influential people of the year.

Vote up the noteworthy, innovative figures below, or add an influential person who you think played a major role in changing the world during 2014.