Introduction: The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic depression in the decade preceding World War ll. The timing of the Great Depression varied across nations, but in most countries it started in 1929 and lasted until the late 1930s or middle 1940s. It was the longest, most widespread, and deepest depression of the 20th century. Mickey Mouse, Disney’s first unqualified success, appeared at a time when the world was in the first throes of the Great Depression. Mickey’s indomitable spirit, as well as the technological advances that Disney displayed in those first cartoons, struck a chord with movie-going audiences seeking signs that neither the human spirit, nor humanity’s ability to progress into the future, had been irreparably damaged by hard times. People became invested in Mickey Mouse. In rooting for Mickey, audiences were cheering on their own success as well.
Walt and Roy Disney with Mickey Mouse and a special academy award.