The Founding of The Walt Disney Company

On October 16, 1923, The Walt Disney Company was founded by brothers Walt and Roy O. Disney. This marked the beginning of what would become one of the most influential and enduring entertainment companies in the world.

Background

Before the official founding of the company, Walt Disney had been working in Kansas City, Missouri, where he created a series of short films known as the “Laugh-O-Grams.” Despite their creative success, financial difficulties led to the bankruptcy of his studio. Undeterred, Walt moved to Hollywood, California, to join his brother Roy, who was recovering from tuberculosis.

The Founding

The official founding date of the company is marked by the signing of a contract with M.J. Winkler, a New York film distributor, to produce a series of short films featuring a character named Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. This contract led to the establishment of the Disney Brothers Studio, which was later renamed The Walt Disney Company.

Key Developments

• Oswald the Lucky Rabbit: The initial success of Oswald laid the groundwork for the company’s early growth. However, in 1928, Walt lost the rights to Oswald due to a contract dispute with Universal Pictures, which led to a pivotal moment in Disney history.

• Creation of Mickey Mouse: In response to losing Oswald, Walt Disney and his chief animator, Ub Iwerks, created a new character, Mickey Mouse. Mickey’s debut in the short film “Steamboat Willie” on November 18, 1928, was a groundbreaking success, particularly as it was one of the first sound-synchronized animations.

• Expansion and Innovation: Over the following decades, The Walt Disney Company expanded its influence through innovative animated features such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937), the first full-length cel-animated feature film. The company continued to innovate with theme parks, television, and eventually acquisitions of other major entertainment companies.

Broader Historical Significance

The founding of The Walt Disney Company marked the beginning of a new era in entertainment. The company’s commitment to storytelling, technological innovation, and character development set new standards in the industry. Disney’s influence extends beyond film and television, impacting global culture, tourism, and media.

Conclusion

The Walt Disney Company’s journey from a small animation studio to a global entertainment powerhouse is a testament to the vision and perseverance of its founders, Walt and Roy O. Disney. Their legacy continues to shape the entertainment landscape, making October 16, 1923, a significant date in the history of media and culture.