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How blue jeans were invented | Moments of Vision 10

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  • TEDEd Animation

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Today, 96% of American consumers own at least one pair of jeans. But where did these durable duds come from? And how did they get so popular? Jessica Oreck shares the humble origins of blue jeans.


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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Jessica Oreck
  • Director Jessica Oreck
  • Animator Jessica Oreck
  • Composer Eli Janney, Nate Shaw
  • Associate Producer Jessica Ruby
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Narrator Jessica Oreck
Additional Resources for you to Explore
From their practical beginnings to ubiquitous items as comfortable in the world of high fashion as they are as an everyday throw-on, jeans are a key icon in American pop culture. In his cultural history of jeans, James Sullivan terms them “the American uniform.” Check out some stats that testify to their enduring popularity here.

Levi Strauss’ story appeals to nostalgic notions of the American Dream, with its connotations of innovation and entrepreneurship as well as an egalitarian attitude to clothes. Read more about this moment of vision here.

In an industry that is constantly changing in response to trends, for many jeans appeal on a cultural level whilst maintaining a sturdy image of comfort and durability. For many, Levi’s is still the original cowboy brand – see the company timeline in full at this site.

Customize this lesson

Create and share a new lesson based on this one.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Jessica Oreck
  • Director Jessica Oreck
  • Animator Jessica Oreck
  • Composer Eli Janney, Nate Shaw
  • Associate Producer Jessica Ruby
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Narrator Jessica Oreck

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