Walt Disney's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Walt Disney. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Walt Disney was a highly influential American animator, film producer, voice actor, and entrepreneur who revolutionized the animation industry. He holds the record for the most Academy Awards and nominations. His groundbreaking work led to the creation of iconic films and characters, many of which have been recognized for their cultural and artistic significance, earning places in the National Film Registry and AFI's list of greatest films.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1932: Introduction of Goofy and Academy Award

In 1932, Disney introduced Goofy as a new cartoon star. In 1932, Disney filmed Flowers and Trees in full-color three-strip Technicolor, winning the inaugural Academy Award for best Short Subject (Cartoon). Disney also received an Honorary Award "for the creation of Mickey Mouse".

1933: Release of The Three Little Pigs

In 1933, Disney produced 'The Three Little Pigs', which won Disney another Academy Award in the Short Subject (Cartoon) category. The film's success led to a further increase in the studio's staff. Disney invested in a story department separate from the animators.

1935: Chevalier in the French Légion d'honneur

In 1935, Walt Disney was made a Chevalier in the French Légion d'honneur.

December 1937: Premiere of Snow White

In December 1937, 'Snow White' premiered to high praise from critics and audiences.

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1937: Release of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

In 1937, Walt Disney released "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", a feature-length cartoon that furthered the development of animated film.

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1937: The Old Mill release

In 1937, the first work created on the multiplane camera—a Silly Symphony called 'The Old Mill'—won the Academy Award for Animated Short Film.

May 1939: Snow White's Success

By May 1939, 'Snow White's' total gross of $6.5 million made it the most successful sound film made to that date.

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1941: Order of the Southern Cross (Brazil)

In 1941, Walt Disney received Brazil's Order of the Southern Cross.

1942: Special Achievement Award for Bambi

In 1942, Walt Disney received a Special Achievement Award for 'Bambi'.

1943: Release of Victory Through Air Power

In 1943, Disney released the propaganda feature film 'Victory Through Air Power'. Disney also produced shorts such as Der Fuehrer's Face which won an Academy Award.

1943: Order of the Aztec Eagle (Mexico)

In 1943, Walt Disney received Mexico's Order of the Aztec Eagle.

1948: True-Life Adventures Series

In 1948, Disney initiated a series of live-action nature films, titled True-Life Adventures, with 'Seal Island' the first. The film won the Academy Award in the Best Short Subject (Two-Reel) category.

1952: Officer d'Academie

In 1952, Walt Disney was awarded France's highest artistic decoration, the Officer d'Academie.

1953: Special Achievement Award for The Living Desert

In 1953, Walt Disney received a Special Achievement Award for 'The Living Desert'.

July 1955: Disneyland Opened

In July 1955, Disneyland opened; the opening ceremony was broadcast on ABC, which reached 70 million viewers.

1955: Man of the Year by B'nai B'rith

In 1955, Walt Disney was named "Man of the Year" by the B'nai B'rith chapter in Beverly Hills for exemplifying American citizenship and inter-group understanding.

1955: Audubon Medal

In 1955, the National Audubon Society awarded Walt Disney its highest honor, the Audubon Medal, for promoting the "appreciation and understanding of nature" through his True-Life Adventures nature films.