Family:
* Elias Disney: Walt's father was a strict but loving man who instilled in his son a strong work ethic and a love for storytelling.
* Flora Disney: Walt's mother nurtured his creativity and encouraged him to pursue his artistic dreams.
* Roy O. Disney: Walt's older brother was a shrewd businessman who provided financial support and acted as his business partner, helping to build the Disney empire.
Early Mentors:
* Ubbe Iwerks: A fellow animator who worked with Walt on early animated shorts. Ubbe's technical skills and artistic vision were crucial to the development of Disney's early style.
* Carl Laemmle: The founder of Universal Studios, Laemmle gave Walt his first break in the film industry by hiring him to produce animated shorts.
Creative Collaborators:
* Lillian Bounds Disney: Walt's wife was his constant source of support and encouragement. She was also a savvy businesswoman who helped shape the Disney brand.
* Fred Harman: The creator of the comic strip "Red Ryder," Harman inspired Walt with his storytelling and sense of adventure.
* Marc Davis, Ollie Johnston, Frank Thomas, and Ward Kimball: These "Nine Old Men" were Walt's core group of animators who helped to create the iconic characters and stories that made Disney animation legendary.
Business Partners:
* Charles Mintz: A distributor who initially hired Walt to produce animated shorts but then exploited him financially. This experience taught Walt valuable lessons about business and the importance of controlling his own creative work.
* Joseph R. "Joe" Greene: Walt's business partner and head of the Disney studio's distribution department. Greene played a key role in building the studio's success.
Inspirations:
* Thomas Edison: Walt was inspired by Edison's pioneering work in film and his belief in the power of innovation.
* Charlie Chaplin: Chaplin's work in silent films influenced Walt's understanding of comedy and storytelling.
* P.T. Barnum: Walt admired Barnum's showmanship and his ability to create experiences that would captivate audiences.
These are just some of the many people who influenced Walt Disney's life and career. Each person contributed in their own way to his success and helped to shape the Disney legacy that continues to inspire generations today.