In the 17th century, Nimes was famous for its textiles--especially this one, a very strong fabric created by oblique weaving with at least 2 threads. It was dyed with indigo from Italy--called "blue de genes"--that's where the term blue jeans originates. Levi Strauss, looking for a durable fabric for miners & prospectors in the 19th century, bought a batch of it by chance, & changed the world of fashion forever!