You’d think that backpacks have always been a part of the school culture, but that actually isn’t true. It wasn’t until 1972 that backpacks were used by students at University of Washington. Back then the company JanSport. who were based in Seattle, had only been making them for hikers and outdoorsy types. They realized there could be a market for students since they were carrying so many heavy booked to class each day.
Kids have been using them every since!
Image credit: Getty Images