5 Latinos Who Took Over the World

Through the years, the world has been highly influenced by celebrities either from the United States or Europe. However, Latinos are quickly making their way to the top and making a large impact on everyone.

Here are five special Hispanics who continue to not just entertain, but help shape the world today.

1. Shakira

The singer was born in Barranquilla, Colombia in 1977. She started composing songs when she was just 8 years old. Her fourth album propelled her to stardom in 1998. After two years, she started a relationship Antonio de la Rua, son of Argentine president Fernando de la Rua. After 11 years, they broke up so she is currently dating soccer star Gerard Pique of FC Barcelona. Shakira's career blossomed through the years where she garnered numerous awards for her songs and albums. She also began philanthropy works and a charity, ALAS.

2. Jennifer Lopez

Although she was born in The Bronx in New York City, Lopez is very familiar with her Hispanic roots through the influence of her Puerto Rican parents. She is the highest-paid Latina actress and an outstanding singer and dancing, acquiring numerous awards and nominations through the years and selling over 70 million records around the world. She has also been referred to by the media as one of the most influential Latinas today.

3. Enrique Iglesias

He is the youngest of three children of famous Spanish singer Julio Iglesias. Enrique was born in Madrid, Spain, in 1975. He started performing when he was just a teenager. His debut album was released in 1995. Seventeen years later, the Latino star has sold over 60 million records worldwide. Billboard dubbed him "The King of Dance" and "The King of Latin Pop."

4. Salma Hayek

The actress and producer was born in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico, in 1966. Her mother is Spanish and her father is Lebanese. She moved to the United States as a teenager and decided that she wanted to be an actress. She has since appeared in many good films like "Desperado," "Fools Rush In" and "Pirates of the Caribbean." She was named one of the most influential Latin celebrities by TIME magazine.

5. Lionel Messi

The super athlete was born in Argentina but currently resides in Spain. He was named by many sports experts as the best soccer player in the present era and has garnered numerous trophies for his achievements, including the Golden Ball at the recent 2014 FIFA tournament. The most prolific scorer of FC Barcelona was also named by Forbes as one of the most influential athletes in the world.

Who have we missed? Let us know in the comments!