Created as a replacement for a prior Disney character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Mickey first appeared in the short Plane Crazy, debuting publicly in the short film Steamboat Willie (1928), while it was third cartoon featuring Mickey to be produced, it was also one of the first sound cartoons.

But, when was he born? Oddly enough, Mickey's “official” birthday changed dates seemingly every year for decades following 1928. In 1933, Walt himself proclaimed, "Mickey Mouse will be five years old on Sunday. He was born on October 1, 1928.

Quite frankly, Mickey has more manipulation than most, especially in the newer shorts by Paul Rudish. He can transform objects into other objects, control concepts like color, shape, and light, even if something as simple as gravity becomes a plaything if given the right conditions.

Released on November 18, 1928, Mickey Mouse appears as a happy-go-lucky mouse on a steamboat. He has big black eyes without pupils (a change from the first iterations), a shorter olive-shaped nose, large white gloves, and matching oversized shoes.

Mickey Mouse first debuted in "Steamboat Willie" on November 18, 1928. The Opry House in 1929 was the first time Mickey wore white gloves. The 1929 film "The Karnival Kid" was the first time Mickey first spoke, exclaiming, "Hot dogs!"

Mickey Mouse represents everything that Walt Disney wanted to portray- happiness, fun, dreams, and the ability to bring families together. The Mickey symbol has the power to evoke positive emotions and make memorable experiences, thus forming a strong and consistent meaning round the world.

Mickey still enjoys adventure, but his personality is calm and kind. Today, we recognize Mickey Mouse in his iconic red shorts, yellow shoes, and white gloves. He is optimistic, brave, and lovable.

Mickey Mouse's enduring popularity can likely be credited to the way he ubiquitously represents wholesome values of kindness and innocence.

Mickey Mouse's enduring popularity can likely be credited to the way he ubiquitously represents wholesome values of kindness and innocence.

His Distinct Identity Because of his distinct looks and persona, he's become a permanent fixture in the minds of millions. What's helped him stay iconic is his stability and unchanging nature. True, Mickey has worn many hats and designs in his time, but he's still retained his character, core, and unchanging nature.

First introduced to the public in 1928, Mickey Mouse was created by Walt Disney a year before The Great Depression. Instantly embraced by the public as a symbol of hope, the cartoon offered comfort and comedic relief at a time when America needed it most.

According to US copyright law, the rights for a character expire 95 years after the publication of the original work. Disney will lose the Mickey Mouse copyright for Steamboat Willie in 2024, since the short animated film was produced and distributed in 1928.

He is optimistic, brave, and lovable. Mickey undoubtedly stands as the global ambassador of The Walt Disney Company, and without him, Walt might not have found his success. As Walt once said, “it was all started by a mouse.”

Mickey Mouse's enduring popularity can likely be credited to the way he ubiquitously represents wholesome values of kindness and innocence.

shopDisney is launching a new collection series for 2022 - Mickey Mouse: The Main Attraction. This is a continuity series and will feature the same series themes as the 2020 Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Collection.

The mouse is always smiling and ready to entertain kids and he teaches little ones that a friendly attitude takes one far in life. His friendliness also makes him approachable – and huggable.