The Evolution of Jeans

In the 1850s California Gold Rush, tailor Jacob Davis noticed miners' pants wore out quickly. He innovated by adding metal rivets to reinforce them, creating a high-demand product. To patent his design, Davis partnered with Levi Strauss, and they began manufacturing denim pants. Over time, jeans evolved, becoming a fashion staple by the 1960s. Today, nearly all Americans own jeans.

What problem did Jacob Davis aim to solve with his innovation?

• Improving the color of pants

• Increasing the durability of pants

• Making pants more stylish

• Reducing the cost of pants

What material did Davis and Strauss use to manufacture their pants?

• Denim

• Cotton

• Leather

• Wool

Why was the crotch rivet removed from the pants?

• It was unnecessary for durability

• It was too expensive

• It caused discomfort near campfires

• It was not fashionable

Who did Jacob Davis partner with to patent his riveted pants?

• A local tailor

• Levi Strauss

• A gold miner

• A fabric manufacturer

By the 1960s, jeans had become popular for what purposes?

• For formal occasions

• Only for play

• For both work and play

• Only for work

What percentage of American consumers own at least one pair of jeans today?

• 75%

• 50%

• 100%

• 96%