Who Framed Mickey Mouse?

The article examines the widely held narrative that the Walt Disney Company singlehandedly orchestrated the 1998 Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act (CTEA), often dubbed the "Mickey Mouse Protection Act," to keep early versions of Mickey Mouse, particularly from the 1928 animated short *Steamboat Willie*, under copyright protection. It challenges this myth by detailing the broader coalition of copyright industries—including composers, music publishers, and other creative sectors—that supported term extension primarily to harmonize U.S. copyright law with European standards and protect heirs' interests. The article traces the legislative history of copyright term extensions from the 19th century through the 20th century, situating the CTEA within this context and highlighting the complex political compromises involved, such as the inclusion of the "music fairness" provisions benefiting restaurants and bars. It also explores how Disney's corporate image evolved culturally and politically, becoming a convenient villain symbolized by Mickey Mouse in public discourse and media, especially during the Eldred v. Ashcroft litigation challenging the CTEA's constitutionality. Ultimately, the article argues that the popular framing of Disney as the dominant force behind copyright term extension oversimplifies a multifaceted legislative process and reflects broader dynamics of media narrative, corporate personification, and ideological polarization in American society.