The Walt Disney Company Disney Media Networks, and Walt Disney Direct-to-Consumer and International. Disney also owns and operates the ABC broadcast network; cable television networks such as Disney Channel, ESPN, A&E Networks, and Freeform; publishing, merchandising, music, and theater divisions; and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, a group of 14 theme parks around the world. The company has been a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average since 1991. Mickey Mouse was created in 1928 and is the signature mascot and emblem for Disney and one of the world's most recognizable characters. On December 14, 2017, Disney announced an agreement to acquire 21st Century
Timeline of The Walt Disney Company Timeline of The Walt Disney Company This is a timeline of The Walt Disney Company, listing notable business events for the organization. The Walt Disney Company was founded in 1923, and found much success under Walt Disney's leadership through his death in 1966. After Walt Disney's death in 1966, the company began a slow decline with no clear direction, which culminated in an unsuccessful greenmail attempt to buy the company from current shareholders. Michael Eisner (from Paramount Pictures) is hired to be the new CEO, along with Frank Wells (from Warner Bros.) as president. They bring leadership vision and place