Walt Disney and the U.S. State Department

About a month ago I learned of the most interesting rumor about “Saludos Amigos” and “The Three Caballeros.” The little-known 1940s flicks, which feature Donald Duck traveling to Central and South America, meeting, and having adventures with Brazilian parrot Jose Carioca and Mexican rooster Panchito Pistolas, were supposedly commissioned by the U.S. State Department. As soon as I read this, I instantly had to know more. I really wanted to learn the real story, if one existed, behind the rumor and share it with you here. I couldn’t do that, however, until I was able to find at least some … Continue reading

Happy Birthday Donald!

Maybe it’s the ageist in me, but Donald looks pretty snappy for 73 years old. Donald is a particular favorite of ours here at home – both my husband and I have always preferred Donald of the Disney characters featured in Mickey and the Gang. The Wise Little Hen Donald premiered in a Silly Symphony cartoon called The Wise Little Hen on June 9, 1934. My grandmother was just 14 years old and once upon a time, she told me about seeing the Disney cartoons featured in the theater. Donald’s hot temper made him an audience darling. In the 1940s, … Continue reading