How does Schlosser describe the origins of the fast-food industry?

Schlosser describes the origins of the fast-food industry as closely related to the post-World War II era, which saw a significant shift in American culture, particularly with the rise of automobile culture. This period marked changes in consumer behavior and lifestyle, where the convenience of fast food became appealing to families and individuals who valued efficiency and speed in their dining experiences.

The proliferation of highways and the increasing reliance on cars led to the development of drive-in restaurants and ultimately fast-food chains that catered to this new mobile lifestyle. This transition was marked by a desire for quick meals, which fast-food establishments provided in abundance. The combination of a booming economy, suburban expansion, and an automotive culture created the perfect environment for fast food to flourish as a dominant force in the American culinary landscape.