This great YouTube video is a real piece of history. Today is the birthday for a true American icon. Mickey Mouse is 80 years old!

Steamboat Willie launched Mickey Mouse into the public psyche. It’s often considered the first appearance of Mickey. But this isn’t true. Mickey’s first cartoon was called Plane Crazy. But that cartoon failed to catch on with audiences.

Steamboat Willie, on the other hand, was a huge success. It features a rather mischievous Mickey. He’s a little different than the Mickey we know today. This cartoon is an interesting look at Disney’s beginnings.