We did a related poll nearly a decade ago, and I've taken pointers from that one in constituting the list of candidates here (though this one covers a shorter time span).  I also consulted lists of the most cited legal scholars and the most cited articles in compiling the list.  For living faculty, only those 60 or older in 2018 were included.  Have fun!   Some figures straddle the pre- and post-1945 period, but you may consider the impact of their pre-1945 work on American legal thought since then.

SINS OF OMISSION from the poll include Thomas Merrill, Martin Redish, Martha Fineman, and Janet Halley, among others that have been called to my attention.  Others complain that there are too many choices!

UPDATE:  A number of readers complained that more than 100 choices was too many, and is clearly discouraging people from participating, so I've shut it down.  I may try again, perhaps breaking this into more discreet areas of legal scholarship or even more discreet time periods.  Thanks to all who voted, and thanks to those who sent feedback.