Ray Kroc transforms McDonald's from small restaurant to global fast-food leader

Ray Kroc discovered the original McDonald's restaurant in 1954, founded by the McDonald brothers in 1940. He recognized its potential and became the first franchisee, leading to significant growth. In 1955, Kroc established McDonald's System, Inc., which later became McDonald's Corporation. He bought out the McDonald brothers in 1961 for $2.7 million, approximately $28.5 million today. Kroc's efforts transformed McDonald's from a small burger joint into a global fast-food empire, making it one of the most recognized brands worldwide.