13. Edward Snowden
Edward Snowden, a former NSA contractor, made headlines in 2013 when he leaked classified documents revealing extensive global surveillance programs. His actions ignited a worldwide debate on privacy and government overreach, challenging the balance between security and individual rights.
Snowden’s controversial decision to expose these practices has led to increased scrutiny and reform of surveillance laws, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in government operations. Agree or disagree with Snowden’s methods, there’s no doubt he changed the way we talk about privacy rights.
