Ross Ulbricht is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures of the digital age, as he played a pivotal role in the creation and operation of Silk Road, an online marketplace that revolutionized the way goods, including illicit substances, were bought and sold on the internet. His actions not only sparked a global conversation about privacy, internet freedom, and the implications of cryptocurrency but also led to significant legal and societal repercussions that continue to shape discussions about online commerce and regulation today.
source: https://www.coindesk.com/policy/2025/12/05/most-influential-ross-ulbricht