McDonald's first mascot was Speedee, introduced in 1948.
Speedee was a chef-like cartoon figure whose name referred to the restaurant's emphasis on speedy service. He appeared in early McDonald's signs and advertising before Ronald McDonald became the company's best-known character.
Speedee is sometimes confused with the Golden Arches because both belong to the chain's earliest visual identity. They served different purposes: Speedee represented service and food preparation, while the arches became the enduring architectural and corporate symbol.
McDonald's gradually retired Speedee from major branding as the arches and a larger cast of advertising characters took over. His early use nevertheless connects the modern brand to the restaurant's original speed-focused identity.