On December 5, 1901, an icon was born, named Walter Elias Disney. Better known as Walt Disney, the man that created the magic of Disney for generations of guests to enjoy. As we celebrate, learn 5 facts about Walt Disney now!
5 Facts About Walt Disney:
Walt Disney himself was the original voice of Mickey Mouse. From 1929 (starting with The Karnival Kid) through 1946 Walt Disney voiced Mickey Mouse, after 1946 he found himself too busy. Look up the old black & white cartoon, The Karnival Kid and Steamboat Willie, to hear Walt Disney as Mickey!
Everyone thought his first animated feature film would fail. However, even with some setbacks it prevailed. Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs earned $8 million during its initial release, in todays value that’s equilvalant to over $130 million.
Mickey Mouse was not Walt’s first character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit was. Walt was asked by Universal Studios to come up with a new character, what Walt didn’t know is he would eventually be cut out of the deal and have to come up with a new Character to move forward in his own career. Hence, Mickey Mouse was born. However, rights to Oswald the Lucky Rabbit were restored to the Disney Company in 2006.
Walt Disney loved his country, using his insights and skills to produce: animated war propaganda films and more. Including training videos for U.S. Military and Cartoon insignia to boost moral of U.S. Troops for World War II. Also interesting, Walt Disney dropped out of High school with wishes to join the army, he was not accepted since he was only 16 at the time. However he did land a job as an ambulance driver with the Red Cross instead.
Walt Disney was nominated for 59 Academy Awards between 1932 and 1969, winning 22 Awards. This is the most awards & nominations for any single person.
Learn more about planning your Walt Disney World vacation. Plus overwhelmed with all the planning? Destinations in Florida can help you plan your perfect trip.