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Today in History: Ray Kroc opens ninth McDonald's franchise in Illinois

4/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On April 15, 1955, Ray Kroc opened the ninth McDonald's franchise in Des Plaines, Illinois, marking the establishment of the modern McDonald's Corporation. Kroc, who had previously worked as a franchising agent for the McDonald brothers, transformed the brand into the world's leading fast food chain by revenue.

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Story summary

On April 15, 1955, Ray Kroc opened the ninth McDonald's franchise in Des Plaines, Illinois, marking the establishment of the modern McDonald's Corporation. Kroc, who had previously worked as a franchising agent for the McDonald brothers, transformed the brand into the world's leading fast food chain by revenue.