Looking back on the past year, the world lost many beloved celebrities and icons who made a lasting impact on the lives of many. These people have changed the world in various different ways and both young and old generations will remember them for everything that they accomplished.

David Bowie

David Bowie was a widely known British musician who broke down boundaries in both the pop and rock industries. Famous for hits such as “Changes” and “Under Pressure,” this superstar’s career spanned five decades long since his first album was released in 1967. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996 and was considered an innovator due to his reinvention of visual performance. Bowie died on Jan. 10 at the age of 69.

Carrie Fisher

The actress who made Princess Leia famous in the “Star Wars” film series died on Dec. 27 at the age of 60. Fisher was known not only for starring in the popular sci-fi movies but also for the romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally.” Her mother Debbie Reynolds, who was the leading actress in the 1952 film “Singin’ in the Rain,” died one day after her daughter at the age of 84.

Prince

Another musician who captivated millions was Prince. Prince was an American singer-songwriter who was praised and admired for not only his eclectic music but his flamboyant stage presence as well. “When Doves Cry” and “Purple Rain” are just two of his many popular songs. He sold over 100 million records worldwide and won seven Grammy awards. He died on April 21 at the age of 57.

Harper Lee

The famous novelist who wrote “To Kill a Mockingbird” died on Feb. 19 at the age of 89. Lee is known for her book that brought heavy attention to the topic of racism. It won the Pulitzer Prize in 1961 and has become a classic in modern American literature. She was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contribution to literature.

Muhammad Ali

Known for his moves inside of the boxing ring, Muhammad Ali was an Olympic gold medalist who won 56 out of 61 total fights in his professional career. Ali was also a big civil rights advocate and made it his mission to stand up for what he believed was right. He died on June 3 at the age of 74.

All of these stars’ legacies will live on for years to come. They will be remembered for not only what they did to entertain, but for what they did for society as well.