-
Period: to
The Evolving of The Shoe
-
Getting to Know Him
Jan Ernst Matzeliger was born on September 15, 1852 in Paramaribo (which is now known as Suriname). He lived around very wealthy parents, which lead to wealth in him. His mother grew up as a slave. At the age of 19, Jan moved to Massachusetts with decent English. He invented the machiene that made shoe production faster. This lead to shoe kinds evolving throughout the world. -
The INVENTION
In early 1883, Jan created the machiene that made shoes at a much higher production rate. This lead to higher quality footwear for people all over the world. Shoes were created about 4000 B.C. It took shoes forever to create. Thanks to Jan, shoes can be made from about 1 pair of shoes a day to 20 shoes. -
His Death
Jan's creation changed peoples lives throughout the world. But then, tragedy struck. Jan passed away On August 24, 1889. The cause of death was thought to be tuberculosis. His death saddened everyone. But, his legacy would continue in shoe producement. -
The Sneaker
Sneakers were created a long time back. But this upgrade made them popular. During the 17th century, shoes were very uncomfortable. Their was no left or right foot. They were straight. A material called plimsolls ruined the shoe. But, near the middle of 1892, the U.S. Rubber Company created the first rubber sole in which curved into the shape of your feet. This brought back the legacy of the shoe to a whole 'nother level. -
Shoe Fitting Fluoroscope
The Shoe fitting fluoroscope was invented in the 1950s. A fluoroscope was a metal construction covered in timber, which was around 4 feet high. The person would place their feet where their was an opening. Next, you would stay in a standing position, and look through a viewing porthole at the top of the fluoroscope down at the x-ray view of the feet and shoes. -
The First Velcro
Shoelaces were invented in the late 1700s. But when this new creation came into the world, it suprised most. The first shoe with velcro was created in 1955. Velcro, a combination of the words "velvet" and "crochet," was successfully created by Georges de Mestral, a Swiss engineer. He produced this natural attachment with two strips of fabric and putting them together. Velcro is commonly worn by toddlers, or those with the unability to tie laces. Sketchers is the most famous Velcro brand today. -
The Beginning of Nike
On January 25, 1964, Nike made their debut. This brand still famous today was created by Oregon track athlete star Philip Knight and his coach Bill Bowerman. Other popular brands such as Adidas, Puma, and Under Armour started coming up in the market. After their big hit on shoes, Nike started making clothing with the Nike logo still on it. -
The Air Jordans
In 1984, the famous Jordans were realesed by Nike. Pro basketball player Michael Jordan got shoes named after him after his rookie season with the Chicago Bulls. He signed with Nike. Jordans took the world by storm, with millions of purchaces. This led to the creation of hats, sweaters, and much more. -
Shoes Today
Today, you can find shoes in many different colors, sizes, and styles. You can get boots, kleets, basketball shoes, high heels, sandals, flip flops, flats, tap dancing shoes, and many more. Jan's legacy will always be remembered. So the next time you buy a pair of shoes, just know that thanks to Jan, you can have sick shoes. -
The Latest Shoe Machiene
Here is what a shoe machiene looks like today. This particular one is from Nike. Today, we can make thousands of pairs daily. That was a lot faster than Jan's. You may thiink that his invention isn't important, but think about all the shoes you've owned. 365 shoes could be made in a year. What are the chances you could get a pair in a year? Thanks to our latest version, everyone can be satisfied.
