Explore the birth and popularity of the Davy Crockett craze in 1955, fueled by a TV show and post-war affluence. Learn about Disney's struggles and frustrations, the impact of Davy Crockett on American children, and the rise and fall of the craze. Discover the enduring influence of Davy Crockett and the rise of rock and roll music in America.
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Quick takeaways
The Davy Crockett craze showcased the economic power of American youth and the influence of television.
The success of the Davy Crockett TV show was a turning point for Walt Disney, helping him secure funding for Disneyland and propel his company into a cultural empire.
Deep dives
The Rise of Davy Crockett
The Davy Crockett craze took America by storm in 1955. Inspired by the TV show and Ballad of Davy Crockett, kids became enamored with the frontier hero. The craze led to a surge in merchandise sales, including coonskin caps, records, and clothing. Millions of viewers tuned in to watch the show, solidifying its popularity. However, critics later scrutinized Davy Crockett's historical accuracy, leading to its eventual decline. Despite its brief lifespan, the Davy Crockett craze showcased the influence and economic power of American youth.
Walt Disney's Risky Bet
For Walt Disney, the success of the Davy Crockett TV show was a turning point. Struggling financially, Disney took a gamble on the show to secure funding for Disneyland. The show's popularity allowed Disney to gain support from ABC and capture the attention of millions of viewers. Disneyland's opening day was broadcasted live, further promoting Disney's vision. The show, merchandising, and subsequent film releases generated significant revenue and propelled Disney's company towards becoming a cultural empire.
The Decline of Davy Crockett
As quickly as the Davy Crockett craze had risen, it began to fade. Intellectually critical analysis of the historical figure behind the show and racism fears associated with rock and roll music contributed to its decline. The novelty wore off and children grew older, moving on to new interests. Despite its short duration, the craze demonstrated the economic and cultural power of the baby boomer generation, as well as the impact of television and youth consumerism.
The Enduring Legacy
Even though the Davy Crockett craze was relatively short-lived, it left a lasting impact on the individuals who experienced it. Many remained fascinated by Davy Crockett throughout their lives, actively studying and promoting his story. The craze also marked the rise of rock and roll as a cultural force, appealing to young Americans and showcasing their economic influence. The Davy Crockett craze may have ended, but it paved the way for future trends and cultural shifts in America.
In 1955, the frontiersman Davy Crockett became the most famous man in America, more than a century after his death at the Alamo. This week, Evan Chung dives into a cultural phenomenon nobody saw coming. Not the kids in coonskin caps who started the craze, not the parents whose money fueled it, and least of all Walt Disney, the legendary studio head who created it totally by accident.
Josh Levin is One Year’s editorial director. One Year’s senior producer is Evan Chung.
This episode was produced by Kelly Jones and Evan Chung, with additional production by Sophie Summergrad.
It was edited by Joel Meyer and Derek John, Slate’s executive producer of narrative podcasts.
Merritt Jacob is our senior technical director.
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