History of Long Johns
Long johns were first introduced into England in the 17th century, but they did not become popular as sleepwear until the 18th century. They were supposedly called long johns after a famous knife fighter who fought in thermal underwear. They were first used as loungewear but then later became popular as sleepwear. Children also wore long johns as sleepwear, usually made out of cotton and polyester.
In 2004, Michael Quinion, a British etymologist and writer, postulated that the "john" in the item of apparel may be a reference to Sullivan, who wore a similar-looking garment in the ring. This explanation, however, is uncertain and the word's origin is ultimately unknown.
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