Walt Disney Birthday 2015: Quotes And Facts To Inspire Your Creative Side And Celebrate

Walt Disney, the man who started an empire that has entertained millions of children around the world for decades, turns 114 years young on Friday. Happy Birthday, Walt!

While there is plenty of folklore around Disney, who was born on Dec. 5, 1901, it’s without question that the company he founded has brought joy to many. From the classic tales of Mickey and Minnie Mouse to the modern company that brings you Marvel feature films and Star Wars, the company has quite the reach.

Disney was born in Illinois, but spent most of his formative years in Missouri, where he first started down the artistic path, according to Biography.com. When Disney was nine when his family moved to Kansas City. There, he developed a love of trains that would later lead him to a summer job on the railroad nearby.

He dropped out of school at 16, but was denied entrance into the military, so he ended up driving an ambulance in France for a year. He then moved back to Kansas City where he started making cartoons with his brother. They eventually pooled their money and moved to Hollywood, where they would ultimately flourish and achieve commercial success with Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and Pluto as their heavy-hitting entertainers.

The rest, of course, is history.

Here are 10 quotes from the father of all the characters who have woven themselves into the fabric of modern pop culture:

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”

“I am interested in entertaining people, in bringing pleasure [to others], particularly laughter, rather than being concerned with 'expressing' myself with obscure creative impressions”

“We allow no geniuses around our Studio.”

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

“Laughter is America's most important export.”

“All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles have strengthened me... You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.”

“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.”

“That’s the real trouble with the world. Too many people grow up.”

“First, think. Second, believe. Third, dream. And finally, dare.”

“I love Mickey Mouse more than any woman I have ever known.”

You can find these quotes and more here, here and here.