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# The Legacy of Disney's Oswald the Lucky Rabbit ## Introduction Disney's Oswald the Lucky Rabbit is a significant character in the history of animation. As one of the first successful cartoon characters created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, Oswald paved the way for what would eventually become the iconic Mickey Mouse. This article will explore Oswald's origins, significance, legacy, and his eventual comeback. ## 1. The Birth of Oswald **P1**: Created in 1927, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit was born out of a collaboration between Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. The character was initially commissioned by Charles Mintz for Universal Pictures. While Oswald was a hit, Walt discovered that he did not own the rights to the character. **P2**: This realization marked a turning point for Disney. Motivated by the loss, Walt decided to create a character that he could fully control, leading to the birth of Mickey Mouse in 1928. ## 2. Oswald's Popularity **P3**: Oswald quickly became popular for his mischievous personality and slapstick humor. The short films featuring Oswald showcased innovative animation techniques for their time. Disney's team proved adept at creating engaging storylines filled with humor and action, attracting a wide audience. **P4**: Despite his popularity, Oswald was not as well-known as Mickey Mouse. However, he continued to thrive in the late 1920s, starring in numerous short films that resonated with audiences and contributed to the evolution of animated characters. ## 3. The End of an Era **P5**: The joy of Oswald's success came to an abrupt halt in 1928 when Universal Pictures took ownership of the character after a contractual dispute with Walt Disney. This experience fueled Disney's determination to build a brand that was entirely under his control. **P6**: Thus, Mickey Mouse was born, who soon overshadowed Oswald and became the face of the Disney franchise. The shift marked a new era for Disney and transformed the world of animation, setting new standards for character creation and storytelling. ## 4. The Return of Oswald **P7**: Fast forward to 1928, the limited rights to Oswald remained with Universal until a significant deal made in 1928 allowed Disney to reclaim the character. The rights were surrendered in exchange for a partnership in the distribution of Disney properties. **P8**: In the modern day, Oswald has seen a resurgence in popularity. He featured prominently in the "Epic Mickey" video game series, which introduced a new generation of fans to the classic character. ## 5. Oswald's Impact on Disney **P9**: Oswald the Lucky Rabbit is not just a historical figure; he holds an essential place in the legacy of Disney. His character demonstrated the potential of animated storytelling, solidifying the framework upon which future characters would be built. **P10**: Today, Disney honors Oswald not only through merchandise and appearances in media but also by remembering him as a critical stepping stone in the animation industry. His story serves as a reminder of creativity, adaptation, and the importance of ownership in the entertainment landscape. ## Conclusion **P11**: Oswald the Lucky Rabbit may have been overshadowed by Mickey Mouse, but his achievements and contributions to the world of animated entertainment cannot be overlooked. As we celebrate the magic of Disney, let's not forget the rabbit that started it all, paving the way for countless characters and stories to come. **Word Count**: 525 words