1. His father, Elias Disney: Elias was a hard-working farmer who instilled in Walt a strong work ethic, determination, and the value of family. Walt often credited his father with giving him the courage to pursue his dreams.
2. His brother, Roy Disney: Roy was Walt's constant partner and confidante, providing essential business acumen and support. Roy's loyalty and unwavering belief in Walt's vision were instrumental in Disney's success.
3. Winsor McCay: This pioneering animator created groundbreaking animated films like "Gertie the Dinosaur" and "Little Nemo." McCay's innovative techniques and storytelling inspired Walt's early ambition to create moving pictures.
4. Ub Iwerks: Walt's close friend and early collaborator, Iwerks was a brilliant animator and inventor. He played a crucial role in developing Mickey Mouse and pioneering many animation techniques, including the multiplane camera.
5. The "Dreamers" of Hollywood: The early pioneers of the film industry, including Cecil B. DeMille, D.W. Griffith, and Mack Sennett, inspired Walt's desire to create entertaining and innovative films.
6. Thomas Edison: Walt admired Edison's entrepreneurial spirit and his groundbreaking work in filmmaking, particularly Edison's invention of the kinetoscope, a precursor to modern movie projectors.
7. The American spirit of innovation and hard work: Walt embodied the American dream, believing that anyone with dedication and creativity could achieve their goals. This belief was shaped by his upbringing and the societal environment of his time.
Therefore, it's not about one specific individual but a combination of these influences that shaped Walt Disney's character and fueled his extraordinary achievements. He learned from the best, both in his family and in the entertainment industry, ultimately creating his own unique path and becoming a role model himself.