THE HISTORY OF THE HOODIE

 

The origins of hooded garments can be traced back over 3,000 years ago to the earliest known Assyrian text from the 13th century BCE. Even in ancient times, covering the head held cultural significance, and this tradition spread throughout the Assyrian Empire, spanning from the Persian Gulf to Medieval Europe.

Fast forward to the 1930s, the modern hoodie, as we know it today, was born. The Knickerbocker Knitting Company, which later became 'Champion,' invented the first hooded sweatshirt. It caught the attention of the University of Michigan in 1934, leading to the creation of the first sports team hoodies. Soon, these practical garments found use among laborers in cold-storage warehouses and tree surgeons as protective outerwear.

The hoodie's cultural relevance escalated in the 1970s when hip-hop culture emerged in New York's underground music scene. MCs, graffiti artists, and b-boys adopted the hoodie as their uniform, seeing it as a symbol of discretion, dignity, and defiance. It provided a sense of safety and comfort, especially for marginalized youths who sought solace in the cocoon-like garment.

In the mid-70s, movies like Rocky contributed to the hoodie's rise in popularity, associating it with discipline, humility, and self-determination. However, as it gained broader appeal, it also faced politicization due to a double standard, often linked to issues like racism, youth disenfranchisement, and police brutality.

The 90s saw the hoodie embraced by hard-edged gangsta rap groups like Wu-Tang Clan and Cypress Hill, further cementing its place in urban culture. Designers such as Giorgio Armani, Tommy Hilfiger, and Ralph Lauren incorporated the hoodie's urban look into their fashion lines, yet its symbolic relevance persisted, especially in addressing societal issues in the United States.

In 2012, the hoodie took on even greater significance after the tragic shooting of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Florida. The Million Hoodie March was organized to support his family, drawing attention to the hoodie's symbolism beyond mere fashion. Influential figures, including NBA players and musicians like Wyclef Jean, donned hoodies to raise awareness about the stereotypes associated with this seemingly innocuous piece of clothing.

Today, the hoodie remains an essential and ubiquitous item in modern wardrobes. It symbolizes much more than its humble beginnings, sparking conversations and debates on various social issues. Its versatility as both practical and fashionable attire has allowed it to transcend time and cultural boundaries, making it a timeless and significant piece of clothing in our ever-evolving world.