Walt Disney (Walter Elias Disney) | First Editions

1901 - 1966

Walter Elias "Walt" Disney (December 5, 1901 – December 15, 1966) was an American entrepreneur, animator, voice actor and film producer. A pioneer of the American animation industry, he introduced several developments in the production of cartoons. For example, Disney's studio introduced synchronised sound and full-color three-strip Technicolor to its feature-length cartoons, which can be seen in films such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), FantasiaPinocchio (both 1940), Dumbo (1941) and Bambi (1942). As a film producer, Disney received 22 Academy Awards from 59 nominations, and has won more individual Oscars than anyone else in history. He was presented with two Golden Globe Special Achievement Awards and one Emmy Award, among other honors. Several of his films are included in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

Disney's reputation changed in the years after his death, following accusations of racism and anti-Semitism. He was transformed from a purveyor of homely patriotic values to a representative of American imperialism. Nonetheless, Disney remains an important figure in the history of animation and in the cultural history of the United States, where he is considered a national cultural icon. His film work continues to be shown and adapted; his studio maintains high standards in its production of popular entertainment, and the Disney amusement parks have grown in size and number to attract visitors in several countries.

See below our stock of Walt Disney First Editions, sets, signed copies, and other collectible material.