The film was called “Kid Auto Races at Venice,” only the second movie featuring the young actor, and the first appearance of a character who eventually became known as “The Little Tramp.”

The actor’s name was Charles Spencer Chaplin Jr., and by the time the six-minute silent comedy faded to black, American cinema had seen the birth of a star.

Nearly a century after that short comedy premiered, Charlie Chaplin — especially in his signature Little Tramp guise — is still one of the most iconic figures in the history of cinema. His influence was felt in the art and the business of filmmaking, as well as in American and celebrity culture. ... To read more, click here to subscribe >>