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This curiosity marks the start of a much deeper dive into the enigma that is Burger King. Contrary to expectations of a robust business model, what becomes apparent is the company's founding principle of sheer rivalry with its arch-nemesis, McDonald's.
The Birth of Burger King: A Copycat's Genesis
The story of Burger King begins in 1954 when entrepreneurs Keith Kramer and Matthew Burns were inspired by a visit to the first McDonald's in San Bernardino, California. Captivated by McDonald's ability to maximize profits through the sale of inexpensive burgers via a drive-thru, they decided to replicate this model on the East Coast. Utilizing a unique cooking device—the insta-Broiler— they introduced the first Insta-Burger King in Jacksonville, Florida.