The Mickey Mouse Club, which aired from 1955 until 1959, was one of the most popular childrens' programs in television (see entry under 1940s—TV and Radio in volume 3) history and one of the most beloved properties of the Walt Disney (see entry under 1920s—Film and Theater in volume 2) empire. The series was seen each weekday afternoon. It presented two dozen happy youngsters between the ages of nine and fourteen participating in musical numbers, comedy routines, and educational features. Many classic Disney cartoons were also showcased. The program offered wholesome family entertainment to the baby boomer (see entry under 1940s—The Way We Lived in volume 3) generation.

Before the show began, Walt Disney (1901–1966) conducted a nationwide search for personable children who could sing, dance, perform comedy, and project the Disney image of innocence and enthusiasm. The children selected for the series were known...