June 9, 1934
This day marks the anniversary of Donald Duck’s first film appearance. He was introduced to children in The Wise Little Hen, a short by Walt Disney. Donald, along with Mickey Mouse (who debuted in 1928), would become one of Disney’s most beloved characters. Donald was always known for his short temper and an intense rivalry with his pal Mickey. Increased popularity led to other characters in the Duck family, including Daisy Duck, Uncle Scrooge, and his nephews Huey, Dewey and Louie. Always a family man, Uncle Donald made frequent appearances on his nephews’ popular TV show “Duck Tales.” The show debuted in 1988 and was the first daily animated cartoon show to air weekdays on the well-liked “Disney Afternoon” cartoon series.
