56 influential Hispanic-Americans: In photos

Hispanic Heritage Month is a great time to learn more: For some, more about your own heritage, or for others, perhaps another culture.

The month runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 every year. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson, and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, according to the Library of Congress.

The month is intended to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

We found the following photos in an archival Getty Images album called “Influential Hispanic-Americans.” Some are recent and some might provide a trip down memory lane.

All pictures: Copyright Getty Images