#6 Star Trek paved the way.
Before Star Trek science fiction was considered to be something for children. Star Trek proved not only that science fiction could be popular with people of all ages, but that it could be meaningful as well.
Beyond breaking cultural barriers and inspiring the love of science in people Star Trek also addressed cultural issues. Whether it was calling out the foolishness in prejudices and close minded thinking.
Star Trek inspired science fiction to grow, and without Trek some of the other franchises we all know and love might not even exist.
"“‘Star Trek’ softened up the entertainment arena so that ‘Star Wars’ could come along and stand on its shoulders.” – George Lucas"
Next: Star Trek is wonderfully nerdy