Why "It's a Small World" almost didn’t happen

East meets West it’s a Small World
Today we explore it’s small world History and Facts #smallworldgiveaway
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It’s a small world History and Facts
It was 1960 and Walt had the great idea to offer Disney’s services to any Corporation that was participating in the soon to be “1964 New York World’s Fair”. Many of this companies were looking for the brand new and unique idea that would make them stand out from the rest and Walt knew that he could give it to them.
So he gave them the chance to hire Walt Disney Imagineering to create their pavilions. By doing this, Walt would gain financial support to develop new theme park technology for new Disneyland rides and also for his future plans like Disney World.
Not only that but at the end of the World Fair, all of the attractions created for the world fair could be moved to Disneyland.
So, a team of representatives visited some of the top companies to offer Disney’s services for the fair. And many of this companies knew this was a great chance and they took it.
General Electric sponsored a stage show detailing the evolution of the American household through electric technological advancements and that’s how we got The Carousel of Progress, which was then moved to Disneyland and later Disney World.
Then Ford Motor Company sponsored Ford’s Magic Skyway, a car ride that took guests in Ford cars through natural history dioramas. Sadly, there wasn’t enough room for this ride at Disneyland so it was dismantled and some of its parts were used for other rides.
The dinosaurs were salvaged to become the Primeval World diorama for the Disneyland Railroad, and the Mammoth that the cavemen were attacking was de-furred and placed in the Jungle Cruise at the back of the Elephant Bathing Pool.
The State of Illinois also wanted in, so they sponsored a show in which President Abraham Lincoln would be immortalized as the most amazing Audio-Animatronic figure of its time. And that’s how we got Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln which has a permanent home in Disneyland.
Imagineers had their hands full with this three attractions and were working hard to have them ready on time.
In February of 1963 representatives of Pepsi Cola spoke with Head Imagineer Joe Fowler to ask if Disney was still available to do an attraction for them.
Turns out Pepsi Cola was working with the United Nations agency devoted to children’s welfare to have a pavilion that would provide a “salute to UNICEF and the world’s children” and they didn’t have the slightest idea of what to do.

[@cameronrowell7682]

I absolutely adore this ride! 😍 Such a fantastic video, as well - very interesting. Great job! #smallworldgiveaway

[@fastpassfacts]

Cameron Rowell congratulations! You won!! Please send us a message to [e-mail] so we can send you your tshirt!

[@kylemorello4787]

It's not my favorite, but I love going on it at least once.

[@59Alaskan]

@@fastpassfacts did he get it?? I'll take it! This ride is so colorful & fun! I love the costumes and "their" antics! I love taking my grandbabies on it as they seem to be so mesmerized. We love to tease Grandpa as the music drives him crazy, so the kids always drive him crazy with it. When we made plans to go again and while there, at times. One time there was an issue where we had to sit for like I believe 20 mins so we had lots of laughs, where he was stuck.. he was a very good sport!! Excited to take our now 2 year old when she's 3! 👗🌎🎶 AND, it is so relaxing. .with all the other fast paced ride, it's nice! Thnx for this informative video! Oh, I guess I need to add #smallworldgiveaway

[@VeryEpicGamer]

4th favorite ride

[@m.syauqiabdurahman2798]

@@59Alaskan i really jelous to america , paris , hong kong , shanghai , and tokyo people because they can go to disneyland whenever they want while me I LIVE IN INDONESIA . HOW CAN I GO TO THOSE DISNEY PARKS . IM CRYING RIGHT NOW .

[@mortifera123]

When I was a kid, my parents got me a casette tape of the small world song, which I played as often as I could--of course, the tape went "missing" soon after because my parents got sick of hearing the song day in and day out. But I don't think I'll ever get tired of it. As I get older, I appreciate the song for it's message and the way it translates so beautifully with different styles and instrumentations. The use of counterpoint melodies, harmony, and world music styles within the ride is nothing short of amazing! #smallworldgiveaway

[@brycevo]

I'm glad Small World happened. It's a classic, even if the song can get Annoying. Great job on this Episode!

[@m.syauqiabdurahman2798]

For me , it was not annoying .

[@vancecardenas270]

Well done! Usually I get a little sceptical with facts, but spending all my time at the ride, this is one of the best ones out there

[@chorlauheung4920]

It will always be a "Small World" if we just recognize our similarities and respect one another. Thanks to Richard and his brother for writing such a memorable theme. I will always remember it when I take that boat ride for "It's A Small World" at Disneyland. Condolences to the Sherman family and Disney fans worldwide.

[@thebrinksf69]

Great job guys as always. One small note of entertainment is that the first version of the song was not approved since it was too slow. Dick Sherman has told this story and played the first version in videos. Walt told him he wanted it more upbeat, and that's the version we hear now. Who did the animation at 4:58 ?

[@GabrielTheMagolorMain]

the brink Thanks for sharing that! And I like the animation there 😊

[@ariannaandjordan]

I love this ride so much! It's actually my favorite ride at Disneyland and I always make sure to go on it. It holds a lot of memories for me, like that one time I got stuck on it and they shut off the music and the only thing you could hear was the creaking of the dolls dancing. Kinda terrifying, but it's fun to look back on! Loved the video guys! It's obvious how much work and care went into it! #smallworldgiveaway ❤️

[@Mightyno19]

I have no idea Mary Blair had such an influence on the ride. Makes my experience feel much more magical. #smallworldgiveaway

[@austinklein1172]

I LOVE Small World. GREAT memories from my childhood to GREAT memories with my kids and. Soon with my grand baby.

[@DanielMizner]

My 7-year-old daughter insists that we ride It's a Small World first, before any other ride at WDW. Thanks for the information, I will be sure that her and I watch this together this weekend! #smallworldgiveaway

[@Rubi94Mari]

#smallworldgiveaway This ride always gave me the chills but it's also so cute I can't stay away. Really love the Mexico room especially since they addded the Three Caballeros in it!

[@Mouserjan0222]

There's just one moon and one golden sun And a smile means friendship to everyone Though the mountains divide And the oceans are wide It's a small world after all that's the second verse to the song which I never understood why they didn't' sing that too

[@xim287]

#smallworldgiveaway if it's a small world is the most played song in the world, I feel really bad for the cast members that work in the ride. Just imagine them having to hear it over and over and over an over again, poor souls 😂😂

[@stevenvasquez1709]

lol My wife has worked at Small World at Disneyland for 40 years this July. She still loves it but she never hears the song! I'm sure most of the employees don't because they're so busy. I still love the ride.

[@MaverickHunterAlia]

In my opinion it's a small world is the best attraction at Disneyland. I absolutely love the facade of the attraction. I'm also proud to say that I have a tattoo of the clockface on my arm.

[@AdairTheSkull]

If you look closely in Disneyland, you can just make out some of the pencil stenciling around the glitter. Being able to see that has always made it more magical to me. I feel connected to the past.

[@derekllewellyn6663]

@@AdairTheSkull do you know what my birthday it's 35th birthday party anniversary celebration for New 🆕 for years before Walt Disney company class starts at VIP tickets tour guide Walt Disney footsteps tour magic morning online free time years of life live stream story ture life movie all about Walt Disney plus on Disney company class starts

[@haydenh3015]

I’ve always felt bad for Mary Blair because her original facade was never built, but I think the IASW facade at Tokyo Disneyland does a great job paying tribute to her! #SmallWorldGiveaway

[@toyoracingteam]

I love this ride; every time I go to WDW or DLR I force my friends/family to ride it. It's a classic! #smallworldgiveaway OMG I WON LAST WEEK!

[@sempaisimp506]

I always thought that Walt Disney was a happy, funny guy, but 3:33 has scarred me for life

[@whossoul]

Small World is my favorite. Ironically, I didn't like it much as a child. However, I started to appreciate it more and more as I grew older, and now it's a ride I never miss. I think it is the quintessential Disney ride, no other ride I feel embodies the spirit of Walt Disney and his joyful, hopeful attitude! #smallworldgiveaway

[@ADAMan123]

Hey! I’ve been on vacation in the last few weeks so I haven’t been able to watch your videos lately. Time to have a mini Fastpass catch up marathon! Great video by the way! The song is already stuck in my head ( :

[@JacobCacho]

Every time my family takes a trip to Disneyland, the first ride we ever do is “its a small world”! I guess its our family tradition and I hope the ride stays forever 😁

[@katherinecordova9650]

i really enjoy these videos! i love learning about disney history, and i think the ride histories are so interesting! especially when walt took part in creating it! :)

[@stephaniecraig308]

I love how Joan Crawford was pivotal in getting this attraction up and running. Now I'll have good thoughts to balance out the creepy wire hanger memory from Mommie Dearest." BTW, I still cannot use wire hangers after seeing that movie as a kid. #smallworldgiveaway

[@Ryan-ye9ux]

OMG!! I Love The Intro So Much Because All of The rides Are My favorite rides!!#Starwars

[@kisesakusaku]

It’s a small world is something special. I think one of my memories is that I went there all alone at Disneyland Grad Night, and not many people ride IASW. (Space Mountain is packed!!) I am a odd teen. I have full of imagination too, so I don’t always feel alone! It was peaceful riding it without a ruckus, though the boyfriend of his girlfriend whined and teased IASW, which was my only pet peeve! #smallworldgiveaway

[@trevorrandom]

Magical... some great footage here nice work ☺

[@rattyeely]

I love it's a small world. I used to be scared of it, but now I love it. I wish we still had the tower of the four winds #smallworldgiveaway

[@Peldyn]

I really love the added touch at Disneyworld where your name is shown. My grandkids were so excited #smallworldgiveaway

[@Guernicaman]

Hey, Fastpass! Did you know that, musically, the song "It's a Small World" is the same on a note by note basis, as "One Little Spark" from the original Epcot's Journey to Imagination?

[@johnlopez9207]

Small world

[@cherrycola6961]

Now when I force my family on to the ride I can give them facts about the ride too. Thanks!!

[@PhantasmagoriGal48]

That intro with the Soarin music is everything

[@serpentknot]

This was my favorite ride on my first visit to WDW and I drove my family nuts riding it over and over while we were there. #smallworldgiveaway

[@Liz_ishque]

#smallworldgiveaway thank you for sharing this story with us! I love learning all the behind the scenes stories from your videos.

[@sgtpepprs3]

Creative visuals mixed with in-depth information on Disney! Amazing work as always!! #smallworldgiveaway

[@SimplySusan1211]

As soon as the ride’s theme song started playing I got teary-eyed 😭 My favorite ride! #smallworldgiveaway

[@debbieboring3422]

I was at the Worlds Fair in 1964. But I didn't get to see it's a Small World until 1974. We moved to AZ and went to Disneyland. And loved it.

[@cwfunnies]

Outstanding video, cool facts and excellent narration!

[@kateharlow7264]

When we took my niece for her first trip back in December 2018, her name appeared in the goodbye room and I almost cried. It’s the little things that Disney does to make guests feel special that really make things magical.

[@moirad3895]

#smallworldgiveaway it's a small world has a dear place in my heart! When I went to Disneyworld for the 1st time with my friends this year we went on its a small world as our 1st attraction! I sang the song over and over to my hearts content! I think my favorite part about the ride is the smell of the water in the ride! Brings back so much nostalgia! I actually brought a little cup to put water from the ride to keep as a souvenir! I have water from splash mountain and jungle cruise too! This ride is a classic Walt Disney ride and I always think of him on that ride ❤

[@markdwalton]

I think that's adorable.

[@NothingToDoCrew]

awesome video! I don't think anyone loves this ride, but the history of it is amazing. I wish i could go back in time and go to the worlds fair

[@Amchardy23]

I’m so glad I found your channel! I love stuff like this! We are going to Disneyland in September with my two little girls. I’m most excited about this ride because of how much they will love it! #smallworldgiveaway

[@ItzAdrian02]

Wait, but I thought It's A Small World isn't at Shanghai Disneyland. Also It's A Small World in Tokyo hasn't had the holiday overlay since 2014 or 2013. Right now its mainly Paris and California

[@jaredungar6552]

I've been waiting for this video for a very long time

[@dootboot5384]

I love the videos by the intro is the best part!

[@michaeldion4855]

Wow ! Who knew Joan Crawford, of all people, had anything to do with IASW ??? 😃 #smallworldgiveaway

[@connor2944]

Great informative video 😁 Although there is no small world in Shanghai 😕

[@coyoteartist]

One of my favorite rides at WDW. I love the idea of adding in the characters from the movies and allowing each ride to be a little different.

[@Katie-mm4oe]

Man. Joan was a beast! Glad she stood up for Disney! Though, Walt was pretty stubborn too. "Hey yeah, its too late to build something I dont think you will have the time.." Walt: "UNACCEPTABLE! I'LL SHOW YOU!" Walt is my hero. #smallworldgiveaway

[@KARYFLAGS]

Katie lol Walt be like.."hold my beer"

[@Katie-mm4oe]

Not only that, I also heard that the gold on the building is actual gold. His brother, Roy, heard Walt say he wanted actual gold and he told him no, it was too expensive. And then ROY LEFT ON A TRIP. And when he came back Walt had actual gold on the building.

[@davidwoodbury2320]

🤗👌👍👍👍👍👍 I just came across your video or vlog for the 1st time. I have seen several others ! I am so very impressed with the quality and every aspect of your Production. Bravo ,they surpasse so many others on KZbin. Thank you and Best Wishes for further success.👏👏👏👏👏

[@Curtisawesomesauce]

Strange that Joan Crawford had involvement with a children welfare project 🤔

[@Princessotaku666]

Curtis awesomesauce didn't she abuse her adopted daughter ?

[@chrisms_96]

You realize Mommie Dearest is a bogus hit piece, right? It's even implied by the last line of the movie.

[@zeng58]

I had my headphones on that ride it made it like it was singing my music xD

[@lestrada95023]

#smallworldgiveaway Wow that was a great story. I honestly got emotional watching this because It's a Small World is one of my favorite rides at Disneyland and I had know idea of the backstory. Great Job!

[@CarouSol]

I'm GLAD that this ride did indeed happen, this ride was my childhood and I would be singing it, I'm happy this ride exists

[@QweenB1976]

I love the addition of the Disney Characters to the ride in Disneyland. I just returned from Disney world and wished this ride would have incorporated them too. #smallworldgiveaway

[@dlrp-fans]

This is a ride we nearly alway's do on a visit to Disneyland Paris

[@hellmasterbean5920]

I personally love the characters from Disney movies they added, it added a little something more to an already wonderful ride. My mom and I went through three times on our last trip just to try and catch everything.

[@davidtyree2999]

#smallworldgiveaway Love the ride, been going for 50+ years. First went in Disneyland in 1967 when I was 5, will be back at Disneyland next week and Disney World in 2 weeks!!

[@leesfamily346]

I have never gotten to go to Disney, so I have never ridden It’s a Small World, but I would give my left arm to have attended the 64-65 World’s Fair!

[@mgmstudios4808]

Great video guys! I like how this ride's opening is so unique compared to the other attractions. Keep up the good work!

[@LeetMor]

Great video! I wish they had one in Shanghai!

[@dy9955]

Ford's Magic Skyway became the Peoplemover.

[@sakuratreesap9477]

Every time I hear the sweet sorin' theme I am reminded of epcot and california adveture What makes me want to cry because of all my good memories there.

[@Ichimatsu10K]

This is soooo cool great job on this!

[@VBar32]

The intro's to your videos make my whole day and amazing content to boot!

[@TheClarkChannel]

#smallworldgiveaway Even if you don’t use your magic band at Walt Disney world, it still somehow knows your name. We asked a cast member at the end of the ride and they told us it goes by facial recognition. I don’t know if they were pulling our leg, but either way it’s pretty fantastic.

[@CaitlynLavelle]

It’s funny seeing how many comments mirror my sentiment. I didn’t like this ride when I was younger but as an adult, I have to ride it every time. There’s something about it that is just so special. #smallworldgiveaway

[@nonsensology]

It's A Small World is one of my favorite rides! I'll honestly never understand the sometimes violent hatred for this ride. Sure it has its flaws (the "porcelain doll" look is a bit outdated and could be redesigned to be cuter and less creepy, the Africa room being one huge jungle can be a bit stereotypical, the California version didn't really need a USA room, the addition of Disney characters can be hit or miss, etc.), but at it's core It's A Small World is very sweet, innocent, and optimistic ride. Qualities that can also be attributed to Winnie the Pooh, which is considered one of Disney's masterpieces. And both make me very happy! There's nothing wrong with a little sugary sweetness every now and then. But I guess it just boils down to differences in taste and opinion.

[@jessilyngray1223]

And now that song is stuck in my head...joy

[@alastair876]

I haven't been to Disneyland in over 14 years and that song is still stuck in my head

[@jothelegend1135]

I honestly wish the ride would close down. It's pretty dang old,and could easily be replaced by something else by now....

[@disflicksandtidbits7612]

My son's favorite ride. Love the history behind it! #smallworldgiveaway

[@FRANKIEISCRANKIE]

Great production! You guys are the real deal!

[@haileysipe8551]

I make sure this is always the last ride I go on during every Disney trip. It's such a classic #smallworldgiveaway

[@makutamiserix5612]

When I was a kid, I would always look for the Woody and Jessie dolls in the ride. I also remember seeing a doll somewhere that resembled Walt himself. Not sure if it was intentional or not.

[@niteowl365]

I rode this at the 1964 World’s Fair in NewYork and later at WDW. I would like to see the one in Disneyland, sometime ☀️

[@asapktammg5582]

This video is really well made/researched !! Love your channel

[@richarda4020]

Great video. Well produced. Love this thx!

[@ninjcrafts]

I love it's a small world since 3rd grade! So I know this the best out of all disney LOL🤩🤩 Great Job guys!! #smallworldgiveaway

[@broccoli_vids99]

Best Disney facts in the world award to fast past facts #smallworldgiveaway

[@alexa.910]

Dude, the editing and animation in this is excellent. Can tell you really put a lot of effort into this. Nice job, it paid off 👍

[@1264-t4y]

29k yet you have just as intricate motion graphics as kurzgesagt, you guys deserve WAY more subs as your production quality is through the roof. Also I dig the RGB layers :)

[@fastpassfacts]

M 6 Thank you so much for your kind words, this kind of comments keep us making videos! ❤️

[@xguitarist_]

I love the soarin intro you guys use

[@savannahrenteria8390]

You know. A ride doesn’t have to be thrilling to be a good ride #smallworldgiveaway

[@KARYFLAGS]

but...why is it so creepy??? lol great video.guys!

[@candyelfboii1980]

It's A Small World is one of my all time favorite attractions!! #smallworldgiveaway

[@hausofremix5529]

Hi fast pass facts I have 2 questions first I love your channel ok the questions first in Disney World Florida is there Swedish music on the ride ive never heard it and second why does Disney World not decorate for the holidays thx

[@jt12blk]

The magic skyway was used to develop the Peoplemover system; the omnimover was another Bob Gurr idea that came later.

[@coleadams9899]

honestly this ride scares me, the little dolls give me the absolute creeps. especially when you ride it at night. but, it's a classic and you can't go to disneyland without riding it.

[@dankoranges]

Disney is love, Disney is life #smallworldgiveaway

[@trishawalsh2521]

So much great history that I would have never known. Thanks so much - Nailed It

[@emilyshubsall1231]

Can I just say great video as always and I loved you open theme💜

[@edwardheld5857]

@ - I've always loved the Sherman music, Mary's creativity, and Disney's unlimited Imagination!!! I often play "It's a Small World" in my playlist to keep me happy and remember this great attraction. ~~Ed Held

[@crimsonisland]

I've always loved this ride. My daughters love this ride too. I know a lot of people don't like it because of the repetitiveness of the soundtrack. I still remember riding it the first time on my honeymoon and I make sure we ride it a few times each time we go. #smallworldgiveaway

[@madicakes6632]

I honestly just found this channel a few days ago, and I already joined the discord and have watched so many videos I’ve loved, keep it up please!! I love this channel so much already!! ((((: #smallworldgiveaway

[@kristenx0]

Your videos are so insanely good! The graphics and everything, it boggles my mind how much you must do for these videos. I love them so much! #smallworldgiveaway

[@shikyle24]

i love this ride i subed to you

[@unclepatrick2]

I was on this ride with my Daughter and the Ride stopped. After 20 minutes of hearing the song, even my daughter was tired of the song. About 5 minute later, they turned on the light and pushed the boat to a point where we could unload and walk out.

[@iamchristian1129]

Can you make a video about A Bug’s Land since it’s gonna be Marvel Land Soon

[@ShesJH]

Will there be a video about MaxPass at Disneyland? Thank you!

[@LizzieRoehrs]

“I don’t want to go, Mr. Disney” 😂😭

[@MatecaCorp]

I'm still kind of sad that Shanghai doesn't have a version of it's a small world. (yes, the official name is not capitalized)