Squirt was created by Herb Bishop in 1938, after experimenting with a similar citrus drink, Citrus Club. He created a new, carbonated drink which required less fruit juice and less sugar. Bishop declared that it was the "freshest, most exciting taste in the marketplace".[1]
The product received its name because the drink was claimed to "squirt" into one's mouth like a freshly squeezed grapefruit.[1]
In 1941, a mascot named "Lil' Squirt" was introduced to the product line's marketing to personify the brand. The mascot proved useful in broadening public awareness of the product. Squirt became a popular soft drink in many parts of the country. In addition to being a popular soft drink, Squirt later established itself as a mixer in the 1950s.
Ownership of the Squirt brand has changed hands several times. It is currently property of Dr Pepper Snapple Group.[1]
After a drastic drop in popularity, Squirt briefly regained its fame after several references to the drink in Starkid Production's A Very Potter Musical, which has gained millions of views on Youtube, since its 2009 release.