History of McDonald’s

McDonald's began in 1940 as a small drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino, California, founded by brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald. Initially, they offered a wide menu, but in 1948 they introduced the "Speedee Service System," focusing on burgers, fries, and beverages prepared quickly and efficiently. This streamlined approach revolutionized fast food and laid the foundation for their future growth.

In 1954, businessman Ray Kroc discovered the McDonald brothers' restaurant and saw its potential. He joined the company as a franchise agent and opened the first McDonald’s franchise in Des Plaines, Illinois, in 1955. Kroc eventually bought exclusive rights to the McDonald’s name and expanded aggressively, transforming the brand into a national and then global presence. Under his leadership, McDonald’s emphasized consistency, efficiency, and cleanliness across all locations.

Throughout the decades, McDonald’s continued to grow, becoming one of the world’s most recognized brands. It adapted to different markets by offering localized menu items and investing in modern technology, such as digital ordering and delivery. Despite facing criticism over health concerns and environmental issues, McDonald's has remained a dominant player in the fast-food industry by continuously evolving and staying relevant to changing consumer preferences.