Darth Vader

This is indeed a classic villain. He is powerful, cruel, callous and evil. He is a super-villain. Formerly Anakin Skywalker, he was supposed to be the Chosen One. He is often recognised as one of the greatest villains ever, but his history? He was motivated by The Emporer for Padme, who he ends up killing. So Darth Sideous seems to be the "greatest villain ever."

History
Born Anakin Skywalker as a slave in the prequel trilogy, he is shown to have an interest in Padme. He wins a race with his own racer, and builds CP3O. In Attack of the Clones, 10 years later, his mother dies, and he takes revenge. At the same time, he starts falling in love with Padme. In the Clone Wars, he does a bunch of miraculous things. In Revenge of the Sith, he is worried about Padme's safety, and Darth Sideous, mastermind behind the Clone Wars, motivates him to become his appretince, Darth Vader.

Legacy and Fame
Due to being the "villain" of Star Wars, Darth Vader has been widely recognised among people. There has been statues of him, mimics, toys, stuffies, and some mock movies.