When Was Burlap Invented?

Burlap developed from the jute plant. It also called Hessian cloth since Hessian soldier uniforms were made from burlap. Today, it is primarily used for carpets. India and Pakistan are the world's biggest producers of burlap.

Potential

The English recognized the potential of the jute plant while occupying India. They noticed it being used in paper and rope.

Exportation

In the late part of the 18th century, the East India Company brought back 100 tons of jute to London.

First Mill

The first jute mill was built in Calcutta, India in 1855 but within five years, five more mills had been built.

India Prime Exporter

Although other countries had mills to make burlap by 1939, India had 68,000 looms working to make it the number one producer of burlap.

India and Pakistan

When India and Pakistan separated into two nations, most of the jute plants were on Pakistani lands. India had to start over with its burlap production and Pakistan pushed its burlap industry further.

Resources

• The history of burlap