Jeans

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Who

Levi Strauss, a Bavarian-born Jewish dry-goods merchant, together with Jacob Davis, a Latvian-born Jewish tailor

When

1873

Where

San Francisco and Reno, United States

Riveted denim work trousers were patented in 1873 by tailor Jacob Davis and merchant Levi Strauss, whose San Francisco firm mass-produced them for laborers. Both men were Jewish immigrants, and their reinforced 'waist overalls' became the modern blue jean worn worldwide.

Part of “The Gifts of the Jews” — verified Jewish contributions to the world, with sources.