McDonald’s is America’s most beloved fast-food restaurant with its signature Happy Meals, Big Mac hamburger, and mascot Ronald McDonald, the clown. Watch this video to see how McDonald’s got their start.
Originally, McDonald’s was a drive-in barbeque restaurant. When the owners discovered that 80% of their sales came from hamburgers, they decided to change the menu. They simplified their food offerings.
By using Ford’s assembly line model and dropping their menu down to three items (hamburgers, fries, and shakes), McDonald’s became the first fast-food restaurant. Their customers were thrilled with the high quality and fast service.
In the 1950s, McDonald’s began to expand beyond the California state border and eventually became a worldwide sensation. McDonald’s created their signature golden arches that are still a staple today.
Slowly, McDonald’s expanded its services by adding drive-through windows, playgrounds for kids, and the lure of toy prizes in their Happy Meals. The Big Mac became the most sold item on the menu.
McDonald’s changed its mascot from Speedee, the hamburger chef, to Ronald McDonald, the lovable clown. McDonald’s even extended a helping hand to families in need by creating the Ronald McDonald House.
The golden arches represent childhood memories, good food, and an American fast-food dynasty that has stood the test of time. We hope you enjoy this fun history lesson on McDonald’s as much as we did.
