Age: 71

Fortune: Self made

Source: Zara

Net Worth: $24.0 bil

Country Of Citizenship: Spain

Residence: La Coruna , Spain, Europe & Russia

Industry: Apparel

Marital Status: Married, 3 children

Education: High School, Drop Out

Son of a railway worker. Ranks among world's 20 richest for first time. With help from then-wife Rosalía Mera, got start making gowns and lingerie in his living room 44 years ago. Business became one of world's most successful apparel manufacturers, $8.7 billion (2005 sales) Inditex.

Group also owns 3,000 Zara retail stores in 64 countries. Ortega is chairman. Through his investment vehicles has invested in gas, tourism, banks and real estate; has properties in Madrid, Paris, London, Lisbon, plus luxury hotel and apartment complex in Miami. Reportedly owns a horse-jumping circuit and part of a soccer league. Shuns neckties.