History of Disney

Creation of Disney

Oct 16, 1923

Walt Disney signed a contract with M.J Winkler which is considered the beginning of the Disney company. It was originally known as the Disney Brothers Studio.

Mickey Mouse Cartoon

Nov 18, 1928

The very first Mickey Mouse cartoon was released (Steamboat Willie) in New York. This also marked the first appearance of Minnie Mouse.

Award Winning

Jul 30, 1932

Disney won its first Academy Award for the cartoon 'Flowers and Trees'. Released in 1932, the cartoon was the first full colour release by Disney and of course, featured Mickey Mouse.

First Feature Film

Dec 21, 1937

Disney released its first feature length film. The animated film, 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' premiered in Los Angeles at the Carthay Circle Theatre.

Live Action

Jul 19, 1950

This date marks the release of Disney's first completely live-action feature film. The movie, 'Treasure Island' was the first adaption of the novel to hit the screen in colour.

Disneyland

Jul 17, 1955

The first Disney park was opened in Anaheim, California. On this day, Disneyland was open only to invited guests. The first two inside the park were Kristine Vess (age 5) and her cousin, Michael Shwartner (aged 7).

Mary Poppins

Aug 29, 1964

'Mary Poppins', a feature length musical was released by Disney. Filmed entirely at the Walt Disney Studios in California, the film later recieved 13 Academy Award nominations.

Walt Disney

Dec 15, 1966

Co-founder of the Walt Disney Company, Walter Elias "Walt" Disney passed away, aged 65.

Disney Channel

Apr 18, 1983

The Disney Channel first premiered in '83. It featured eighteen hours of Disney programming when it initially launched in America, later premiering in the UK.

European Disney

Apr 12, 1992

A European Disney theme park opened in Paris, later renamed Disneyland Paris.

Broadway

Apr 18, 1994

The Walt Disney Company first expanded onto Broadway in New York with Beauty and the Beast in 1994.

Lion King

Jun 15, 1994

One of Disney's biggest successes, 'The Lion King' opened to limited audiences in Los Angeles and New York before a nationwide release nine days later.

Cruises

Jun 30, 1998

Disney began specialised Disney Cruises with the maiden voyage by the Disney Magic Cruise Ship taking off in 1998.

50 Years of Disneyland

May 2, 2006

Coinciding with the 50th anniversary celebrations, Disneyland welcomed its two billionth guest to visit a Disney theme park around the world.