What Is Missing In This “Classic” Ad? Part 2 (PHOTOS) (VIDEO)

Its 1956. General Mills "Trix" cereal is vying for a place in Americans' hearts...and stomachs.

I really enjoy looking through old "LIFE," "Look," and "Saturday Evening Post" magazines. Interesting articles...big pictures!  Truly a window into the lifestyle and pop culture...and psyche of the American people, on the magazine's publishing date. And, in my opinion, the advertisements can tell us even more about the long-gone times!

What is this March 1956 "Trix" cereal advertisement missing?

The "Trix" Rabbit. And the slogan: "Silly rabbit, Trix are for kids!"

The Trix Rabbit made his debut 3 years later, in 1959.  The rabbit, often in disguise,  repeatedly tries to trick children into giving him some Trix cereal.  Upon being discovered, the kids take back their Trix cereal, saying: "Silly rabbit! Trix are for kids!"

The rabbit started out as a puppet in 1959, before being animated.  Twice, after a box top mail-in contest (1976 and 1990) overwhelmingly voted "yes," the cartoon rabbit was allowed to enjoy some of the long-desired cereal.

And while its a litle off track, let's not forget "Trix" Yogurt. Growing the franchise! No one could have forseen that in 1956!

There have been other, less-obvious, changes to the cereal, and its marketing to a hungry world!

In 1956, Trix had 3 fruit flavors.  Over the years, several others have been added. The pieces were given a brighter, more colorful look in 1995.  From 1991 til 2006, the original "round" cereal pieces were turned into puffed fruit-shaped pieces.  They have since morphed into a round ball, with swirls.

It is also interesting to note in the 1956 pre-rabbit ad, Betty Crocker (a fictional character, like the rabbit) endorses Trix cereal!  "She" is the spokesperson, the "face" of Trix! "Betty Crocker" is a part of "General Mills."

At the bottom of the ad, it says in SMALL print: "A product of General Mills." Where's the "Big G" on the box? That logo doesn't exist yet.

And, when was the last time that you saw a cereal actually advertising itself as a "SUGAR CEREAL?"

At the same time, note that Betty Crocker is touting Trix cereal's nutritional value! General Mills is trying to have it both ways: selling sugary goodness to kids, and nutrition to mom.

Ah....the "good old days!" The 1950s!

By the way, if it ever comes up in conversation, or "Trivial Pursuit," the official term for a single piece of "Trix" cereal is a: "Tric."

Happy Easter (if appropriate for you)!  The Trix Rabbit, too (if appropriate)!