2D Animation History

  • The phenakistoscope

    The phenakistoscope
    The phénakisticope was the first widespread animation device that created a fluid illusion of motion.
  • The Enchanted Drawing

    The Enchanted Drawing
    The Enchanted Drawing is a 1900 silent film directed by J. Stuart Blackton. It is best known for containing the first animated sequences recorded on standard picture film, which has led Blackton to be considered the father of American animation.
  • Little Nemo

    Little Nemo
    Little Nemo is a 1911 silent animated short film by American cartoonist Winsor McCay. His expressive characters set his animation apart from the earlier animators creations.
  • Gertie The Dinosaur

    Gertie The Dinosaur
    Gertie the Dinosaur is a 1914 animated short film by American cartoonist and animator Winsor McCay.
  • Cut-out Animations

    The Adventures of Prince Achmed features a silhouette animation technique Reiniger had invented which involved manipulated cutouts made from cardboard and thin sheets of lead under a camera. This was one of the first cut-out animations.
  • Steamboat Wilie

    Steamboat Wilie
    "Steamboat Willie" is a black-and-white Mickey Mouse short released on November 18, 1928.
    Animated and produced by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks.
    It was the first cartoon with synchronized sound.