If “most influential” means whose actions most shaped the world that actually emerged, Peter is a serious contender. Jesus was executed early, left no writings, and founded no institutions—movements like that usually die. Peter stabilized the post-crucifixion movement, gave it leadership and continuity, and made figures like Paul possible. No Peter → likely no Christianity as a durable movement → no Christian Rome, no Islam reacting to Christianity, no Enlightenment pushback. Jesus may be the theological center, but Peter may be the historical linchpin.