My how times change. Last year, Gates said he would step down from Microsoft Inc. (NASDAQ: MSFT) to focus on his philanthropy, and Steve Jobs has accomplished the impossible -- he's made Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) a contender in the PC space again. Apple has done no wrong since about 2002 when the iPod created a new culture and a new stock price movement for Apple. The rest is history. Sure, Microsoft launched Windows Vista in early 2007, which was Gates's curtain call at the company he cofounded. It was launched at the wrong time, all things considered (PC makers probably wanted something new to trumpet), and Apple's iPod was just killing the competition, including Microsoft's Zune.

From 1997, Microsoft and Apple -- in a way -- changed places. Microsoft's reign under Bill Gates created many millionaires and the company continues to grow very nicely to this day. Steve Jobs has invented Apple again under the guise of music players in an attempt to grow PC sales in a halo effect; he's also made Apple one of the coolest brands on the planet at the same time. If you were to take the return from owning Microsoft stock from 1997 to 2007 or Apple's stock, which would have made you richer? Exactly 10 years ago, AAPL shares were trading at $5.55 each, and MSFT shares stood at $17.16. Do a little homework to adjust for splits and the like, and would being stock buddies with Jobs or Gates land you in a better position? Vote now.

Vote in our poll for Bill Gates or Steve Jobs, and let us know in the comments why your choice has the financial edge in this match-up. Also be sure to check out our other Money Face-Offs.