Levi and LEE are two of the most well-known and iconic jeans makers in the world. Levi Strauss & Co. was founded in 1853 by Bavarian immigrant Levi Strauss, and is credited with inventing the first pair of blue jeans. LEE Jeans was founded in 1889 by Henry David LEE in Kansas, and is now owned by VF Corporation. Both companies have become synonymous with quality denim products, and their jeans are popular among people of all ages.