Old Major is the pig that inspires the animals to revolt.
Life[]
Old Major is one the oldest animals present on the farm. He lived through both the benevolence and brutalness of Mr. Jones' rule. Old Major grew into a very philosophical and fatherly character.
One day, Old Major speaks against Jones, something no other animal is brave enough to do, and prophesizes of a great rebellion deposing Jones. Three days after his great speech is delivered, he passes away, soundly.
Legacy[]
Old Major is the inspiration for the rebellion. Without him, it can be said without the doubt, the animals would've remained subjugated for the rest of Jones' life and never established Animal Farm. The Seven Commandments of Animalism were based off of Old Major's liberal morality. He also brought to the animals the song "Beasts of England," which would remain a popular song until it was banned by Napoleon.