Which McDonald's slogan began appearing in advertising in 1971 and became one of its most famous taglines?

“You Deserve a Break Today” began appearing in McDonald's advertising in 1971.

The slogan framed a visit to McDonald's as a deserved pause from work or daily responsibilities. It connected the restaurant with convenience and emotional relief, rather than focusing only on speed, price, or a specific menu item.

The line became one of McDonald's most memorable advertising taglines and was supported by widely recognized musical advertising. It remained part of the company's marketing history even after later slogans replaced it.

The slogan is often confused with “I'm Lovin' It,” which began a much later global campaign in 2003. The two lines belong to different periods of McDonald's brand development and communicate different advertising strategies.