One of the most iconic Americans that comes to everyone’s mind is Walt Disney, an innovator in animation and theme park design. Alongside his brother Roy, he co-founded Walt Disney Productions, as we know it today! He later went on to found the Disneyland and Disney World theme parks.
Here’s some interesting facts about Walt Disney you may not have known:
Walt Disney began drawing cartoons during his childhood; his subject being drawings of horses.
Photo source: successstory.com
He has some French heritage, with his original family name being “D’Isigny” before it was converted to “Disney”.
Photo source: Daily Mail
Disney dropped out of school at 16 and tried to join the army. He was rejected due to his age but ended up serving as an ambulance driver in France.
Photo source: adreamaweek
Disney did the voice for Mickey Mouse from 1928 to 1947.
Photo source: ThingLink
Disney never actually drew Mickey Mouse, his cartoonists always did.
Disney was good friends with Uncle Sam, producing propaganda films and army training videos.
Photo source: Oscars.org
Disney has received more Academy Awards and nominations than anyone else. He won 22 Awards in total.
Photo source: The Hollywood Reporter
Disney’s favorite character was Goofy.
He was also very interested in trains, hence the high amount of trains and train themed rides in his parks.
Photo source: canstarblue.co.nz
Before starting The Walt Disney Company, he almost sold vacuum cleaners for a living.
Photo source: MarketWatch
When Disney built Disneyland, he had a “secret apartment” built in the theme park for his own use.
Image source: fr.disney.wikia.com
Disney’s housekeeper was a wealthy woman, every year for Christmas she was given stock in the company. By the time she died, her shares of stock were worth over $9 million dollars.
Image source: joebooks.com
Disney’s favorite princess was Cinderella.
Mickey Mouse’s original name was Mortimer Mouse but Walt Disney's wife, Lillian, convinced him to change it the one we all know today.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brendyn Lupe is a senior at American University, studying International Relations and French. He likes reading, playing the piano, and hanging out with his friends during his free time.