* Early Influences: Walt Disney's love of art, animation, and storytelling were ignited early in life. He drew constantly, was fascinated by the magic of movies, and had a knack for entertaining. These passions laid the foundation for his future success.
* The Rise of Animation: The burgeoning animation industry of the 1920s (think early cartoons like "Felix the Cat") caught Disney's attention. He saw an opportunity to make a unique contribution to the field.
* The Creation of Mickey Mouse: The invention of Mickey Mouse in 1928 is considered the turning point. Mickey was an instant sensation, and Disney's studio quickly became a major force in animation.
* Innovation and Ambition: Disney was constantly pushing boundaries. He experimented with sound, color, and new animation techniques. His ambition to create full-length animated features like "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937) cemented his legacy.
* Expanding Beyond Animation: While animation remained core, Disney saw the potential of theme parks, television, and other entertainment ventures. He believed in creating immersive experiences that would capture the hearts and minds of audiences.
So, it wasn't just one thing that inspired Disney. It was a combination of his lifelong passion, the evolving entertainment landscape, and his tireless drive to create something new and magical.