“If we can bring together the technical know-how of American industry and the creative imagination of the Disney organization–I’m confident we can create right here in Disney World a showcase to the world of the American free enterprise system.” –Walt Disney

A friend of mine shared with me a wonderful vintage Disney book, “Walt Disney World Epcot Center: A Pictorial Souvenir.” The copyright date is 1982, the year Epcot opened.

The book begins talking about Future World. I love the iconic images used to represent each pavilion. Each pavilion also had a sponsor: Bell System for Spaceship Earth, Exxon for The Universe of Energy, General Motors for The World of Motion, Kodak for Journey into Imagination, Kraft for The Land, Sperry Univac for Epcot Computer Central, and General Electric for Horizons. What I found most intriguing was the section on World Showcase.

World Showcase today features eleven countries. Go ahead and count the flags above. The original opening day design only featured nine countries, with three additional countries “coming soon”– Morocco, Equatorial Africa, and Spain. Norway and Morocco were not part of the original design it seems.

The Israel pavilion reminds me of the Moroccan pavilion. “The Menorah, symbol of the state of Israel, stands at a courtyard center, surrounded by buildings reflecting the rich balance of new and old. Walk through ancient Jerusalem to an amphitheater to hear performances of both classical and folk music. Sample native dishes under the shade of olive and cypress trees in the Israel pavilion.”

It’s interesting how close the Equatorial Africa pavilion is to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. At Disney they say that they never throw away any ideas. It is evident that the idea for Disney’s Animal Kingdom had been brewing for years. ”The Equatorial Africa pavilion takes you on safari though a world of natural beauty and adventure. You’ll view the drama of wild animals from the safety of a giant Cailcedra tree. You’ll feel the electrifying energy of the “Heartbeat of Africa” show and sway to the jungle beat of the music and dance. Alex Haley, noted author of Roots, is your host for “Africa Rediscovered,” an adventure uncovering Africa’s ancient heritage.”

Lately rumors have been circling that Brazil might be joining World Showcase. If that is true, it will be interesting to see if it resembles the Spain pavilion. ”Take a spectacular journey through Spain by film to a little known and out-of-the way vacation Edens. A ride attraction captures the country’s passionate heritage and spirit in her arts. In a waterside restaurant, indulge in tapas, or Spanish-style finger food–a blend of varied ingredients but suitable to simple tastes. And browse the market places of striking contrast, from pueblo village to aristocratic opulence.”

What country would you like to see added to World Showcase?