English Project Jan 1929 | Page 11

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Walt Disney:

A Short Biography

By: Megan Neal

Before the 1920s, the name Walt Disney had not yet become the house hold name it is today. Born on December 5, 1901, Walter Elias Disney would go on to build one of the largest and most widely recognized entertainment companies in the world.

Walt was born in Chicago, Illinois and became interested in drawing at an early age. When he was sixteen, however, he joined the Red Cross to aid the war effort during World War I. After the war he returned to Kansas where he continued his career in art and animation. He started out working as a cartoonist for an advertisement company but later moved to Hollywood with his brother. He then started a small company known as Laugh-O-Grams which produced a short series known as The Alice Comedies.

In 1923, Walt and his brother establishe the Disney Brothers Company in Hollywood, California. This company slowly

grew into the company that we know today. However, Mickey Mouse did not appear until the 1928 short Steamboat Willie. This short also marked the beginning of a new era of synchronized sound technology. The Disney Company continued to grow as technology began to improve. Disney always made a point to stay one step ahead and use the newest and most innovative technology that was available, as well as making many technological breakthroughs himself. In 1937, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves made its debut as the first full length animated feature. It was also in full color and sound, which were new innovations at the time.

Since the 1920s, the Walt Disney Company has grown to become one of the most recognizable brands in the world today. From a young age Walt Disney showed a talent in art and design, as well as creativity. His imaginations, along with the assistance of innovative technology, help to build the empire that we know today.

This picture (top) is of Walt Disney later in life and is a good depiction of his friendliness.

This picture (bottom) shows Walt Disney drawing his classic Mick Mouse cartoon