Jeans were invented by tailor Jacob W. Davis in 1871–1873, and he partnered with Levi Strauss to patent riveted work pants on May 20, 1873, marking the birth of blue jeans.
Key facts
- Jacob W. Davis created durable pants by reinforcing stress points with metal rivets; this innovation is credited as the invention of modern jeans.
- Davis teamed up with fabric supplier Levi Strauss to finance and file the U.S. patent for “Improvement in Fastening Pocket-Openings” on May 20, 1873, the date widely recognized as when blue jeans were born.
- The design was intended for miners and laborers during the late 19th century, before later becoming global casual wear.
Names to know
- Jacob W. Davis: Latvian-American tailor credited with inventing modern riveted jeans.
- Levi Strauss: Business partner who supplied denim and co-held the 1873 patent enabling mass production.
Timeline
- 1871: Davis begins making reinforced work pants in Nevada.
- May 20, 1873: Davis and Strauss receive the U.S. patent for riveted pants, marking the birth of blue jeans.
Extra context
- “Jeans” evolved from durable workwear for miners into popular casual fashion in the 20th century.
- Company histories and museums consistently date the origin of blue jeans to the Davis–Strauss patent in 1873.
