First marketed and sold in 1941, Cheerios became the very first ready-to-eat oat cereal. Compared to hot oatmeal and other breakfast options, Cheerios provided for a morning meal with less preparation that was excellent for those days when you just don't feel like eating something warm for breakfast. HAving cereal and milk for breakfast became the newest fad. In 1942, Cheerios presented its first mascot, Cheeri O'Leary.
