When Walt Disney Died
A Life Cut Short
Walter Elias Disney, the visionary and revolutionary entrepreneur behind the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio, passed away on December 15, 1966, at the age of 65. His legacy, however, continues to shape the entertainment industry and inspire new generations of artists, filmmakers, and business leaders.
Early Life and Career
Walt Disney was born on December 5, 1901, in Chicago, Illinois, to Elias and Flora Disney. He grew up in a family of modest means and had to drop out of high school to work as an actor in vaudeville and theater productions. Walt’s early career in animation was marked by perseverance and hard work, earning him his first job as an animator at the Pesmen-Rubin Commercial Art Studio in Kansas City, Missouri.
The Birth of Disney Animation
In 1920, Walt Disney joined the Pesmen-Rubin Commercial Art Studio, where he met his future business partner, Ub Iwerks. After serving in the Red Cross Ambulance Corps during World War I, Walt began creating his own cartoons and short films, using his earnings from the films to support himself and his brother, Roy. In 1923, Disney founded the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio with Ub Iwerks, and their first successful cartoon, "Steamboat Willie," was released in 1928.
The Golden Age of Animation
The 1930s to the 1960s are often referred to as the "Golden Age" of animation. Walt Disney’s innovative and imaginative approach to storytelling and animation pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the medium. The Disney character, Mickey Mouse, was created in 1928, and his popularity grew steadily throughout the 1930s, with the release of films such as "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937).
Major Milestones
• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937): The first full-length animated feature film, which became the highest-grossing film of its time.
• Pinocchio (1940): A critically acclaimed film that cemented Disney’s reputation as a master of animation.
• Fantasia (1940): A groundbreaking film that combined classical music with animated sequences.
• Bambi (1942): A timeless classic that explored the human-animal bond.
• Cinderella (1950): A beloved Disney classic that became a cultural phenomenon.
• Mary Poppins (1964): A musical fantasy film that combined music, dance, and comedy.
Disney’s Later Years
Walt Disney’s personal life was marked by struggle and tragedy. He married Lillian Bounds in 1923, and they had two daughters, Diane and Sharon. However, the couple’s marriage ended in divorce in 1928, and Disney married Lynda Bird Carr in 1954. The couple had a son, Michael, in 1954.
Legacy and Impact
Walt Disney’s legacy extends far beyond his films. He revolutionized the entertainment industry with his innovative approach to storytelling, animation, and theme park design. Disney’s iconic theme parks, including Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida, have become global destinations for families and thrill-seekers alike.
The Walt Disney Company
In 1965, Walt Disney’s beloved friend and business partner, Roy O. Disney, took over as the chairman and CEO of the Disney Company. Under Roy’s leadership, the Disney Company expanded globally, acquiring television networks, cable channels, and theme parks.
A Lasting Impact
Walt Disney’s life and legacy continue to inspire new generations of artists, filmmakers, and business leaders. His commitment to innovation, imagination, and family values has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. As the Disney Company continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to creativity, storytelling, and joy remains at the heart of its mission.
Significant Dates
• December 5, 1901: Walt Disney is born in Chicago, Illinois.
• 1920: Walt Disney joins the Pesmen-Rubin Commercial Art Studio.
• 1923: Walt Disney finds his partner, Ub Iwerks.
• 1928: The Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio is founded with Ub Iwerks.
• 1937: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is released.
• 1940: Pinocchio is released.
• 1941: Fantasia is released.
• 1950: Cinderella is released.
• 1954: The Disney Company is formed.
• 1965: Roy O. Disney takes over as chairman and CEO of the Disney Company.
Timeline
Year | Event |
---|---|
1901 | Walt Disney is born |
1920 | Walt Disney joins Pesmen-Rubin Commercial Art Studio |
1923 | Walt Disney finds his partner, Ub Iwerks |
1928 | The Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio is founded |
1937 | Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is released |
1940 | Pinocchio is released |
1941 | Fantasia is released |
1950 | Cinderella is released |
1954 | The Disney Company is formed |
1965 | Roy O. Disney takes over as chairman and CEO of the Disney Company |
Key Figures
• Walt Disney: The visionary and revolutionary entrepreneur behind the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio.
• Ub Iwerks: Walt Disney’s business partner and collaborator.
• Roy O. Disney: Walt Disney’s business partner and the founder of the Disney Company.
• Lillian Disney: Walt Disney’s wife and the mother of his daughters.
• Michael Landon: The actor who played Cordell Adams in the television show "Bonanza" and Walt Disney’s nephew.
A Lasting Impact on the Entertainment Industry
Walt Disney’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists, filmmakers, and business leaders. His commitment to innovation, imagination, and family values has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. As the Disney Company continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to creativity, storytelling, and joy remains at the heart of its mission.
A Reflection on Walt Disney’s Life and Legacy
Walt Disney’s life and legacy are a testament to the power of innovation, imagination, and hard work. From his early days as a struggling cartoonist to his rise as a revolutionary entrepreneur and filmmaker, Walt Disney’s journey is a reminder of the importance of creativity, perseverance, and family values.
The Disney Legacy Continues
Walt Disney’s life and legacy continue to inspire new generations of artists, filmmakers, and business leaders. As the Disney Company continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to creativity, storytelling, and joy remains at the heart of its mission. The Walt Disney Company remains a beacon of innovation, imagination, and entertainment, inspiring audiences around the world.
A Final Tribute
Walt Disney died on December 15, 1966, at the age of 65. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists, filmmakers, and business leaders. As we reflect on his life and legacy, we honor the spirit of innovation, imagination, and family values that Walt Disney embodied.