

At first Ronald McDonald looked like a creepy horror movie villain and wore a cup on his nose. 1963Įveryone’s favorite clown became the face of McDonald’s. This led to franchises, and eventually, the partnerships that would be essential for the future of Happy Meal toys. Burgers cost only 15 cents! 1954Īn ambitious salesman named Ray Kroc encouraged the McDonald brothers to start opening more restaurants. It was called “McDonald’s Famous Barbecue,” before the name was shortened to “McDonald’s” 8 years later. The very first McDonald’s opened in San Bernardino, California. Here’s a timeline of how the fast food company got started and a list of the most popular Happy Meal toys ever used.

McDonald’s was one of the biggest brands in the world by the 1960s.

McDonald’s & Happy Meal Toys: 1940 to Today
