Ferdinand the Bull was created by Munro Leaf, with illustrations by Robert Lawson, as the titular character of the children's book 'The Story of Ferdinand' published in 1936.
The children's book 'The Story of Ferdinand' was first published by Viking Press in 1936, introducing Ferdinand to the world as a gentle bull who prefers smelling flowers over fighting in bullfights.
Walt Disney Studios released an animated short film adaptation of 'Ferdinand the Bull' in 1938 which won the Academy Award for Best Short Subject (Cartoons).
During the Spanish Civil War, the book was banned in some countries due to its pacifist message, and Ferdinand was interpreted as a symbol of anti-fascism and non-violence.
The book was reissued multiple times over decades, keeping Ferdinand relevant for new generations of readers.
20th Century Fox released a full-length animated feature film titled 'Ferdinand', based on the character created by Munro Leaf, introducing the character to a new generation.
Ferdinand is born on a farm in Spain, his gentle nature evident even in his early days.
As a young calf, Ferdinand finds peace in sitting quietly among flower fields, shunning the rough play of other bulls.
When Ferdinands and others are taken to be trained as fighting bulls, Ferdinand refuses to fight, showing his nonviolent spirit.
After escaping the bullring chaos, Ferdinand goes back to his favorite flower field, solidifying his identity as a peaceful bull.
