Walt Disney, the founder of The Walt Disney Company, has created a very successful franchise, with net profits in the billions, but faces scrutiny over racial and anti-semitic claims. According to a biography of his life, there are claims that he discriminated against black americans until the 1950’s and did not allow women to work in positions of power until the late 40’s. The anti-semitic claims are less serious, only being accused of claiming that he is an “underdog” in Hollywood that is primarily run by Jewish men. Despite all the setbacks, Disney still managed to bring joy to children for generations to come His ebullient personality inspired others to work harder and create a global conglomerate that still produces top notch movies today. Although Disney may not be the best role model and has questionable comments about the people
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Meryl Streep and Disney’s own niece both said that he was a racist, sexist, etc (Daily Mail). That should be the end of the story, but it really isn’t. I personally don’t agree with the things he says, but you have to understand what time period he comes from (Gilley). Born in 1901, Disney was brought into a turbulent era of racism, sexism, and anti-semitic views. The 19th amendment was not yet passed, granting voting rights to all women, and the movement for civil rights would not be for several decades. His parents also grew up in an era of discrimination so it is common for their children to hold the same views. Looking at all of these factors, it is unsurprising that Disney holds these views. People need to understand that Disney did say some awful things about people of other creed or races, but the larger impact that he had on the world was for the best. He changed the way animation was done and was a highly active figure in the animation industry (The Famous
Meryl Streep and Disney’s own niece both said that he was a racist, sexist, etc (Daily Mail). That should be the end of the story, but it really isn’t. I personally don’t agree with the things he says, but you have to understand what time period he comes from (Gilley). Born in 1901, Disney was brought into a turbulent era of racism, sexism, and anti-semitic views. The 19th amendment was not yet passed, granting voting rights to all women, and the movement for civil rights would not be for several decades. His parents also grew up in an era of discrimination so it is common for their children to hold the same views. Looking at all of these factors, it is unsurprising that Disney holds these views. People need to understand that Disney did say some awful things about people of other creed or races, but the larger impact that he had on the world was for the best. He changed the way animation was done and was a highly active figure in the animation industry (The Famous