Nike didn't design the classic sneaker, but it bought the company that makes the iconic Chuck Taylor All Star for $305 million in 2003. Since then, Converse purists have carefully monitored the retro-chic brand for changes, but Nike hasn't made any drastic alterations to the Chucks. The sneaker, which debuted in 1917, became a hit after Chuck Taylor endorsed them in the 1930s.
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NEXT: 2008: Pegasus
Last updated March 17 2009: 10:25 AM ET