McDonald's introduced Ronald McDonald as its signature mascot in 1963.
Ronald appeared during a period when American fast-food companies were building highly recognizable family brands. McDonald's used the clown character in television advertising and restaurant promotions to make the chain especially appealing to children and families.
The character was created for advertising rather than as a historical person. His bright costume, red hair, face paint, and association with hamburgers made him immediately identifiable across McDonald's campaigns. He later became one of the best-known mascots in commercial branding.
People sometimes confuse Ronald McDonald's introduction with the earlier development of the Golden Arches or with the founding of the modern McDonald's corporation. Those were separate milestones. The arches grew from restaurant architecture, while Ronald was a later character created for marketing. The mascot's popularity also led to a wider group of McDonaldland characters in subsequent advertising.