The Converse Rubber Company was founded in 1908 by Marquis Mills Converse in Malden, Massachusetts. Converse was originally a respected footwear salesperson who recognized the potential for a new kind of shoe that would be perfect for basketball players. At the time, basketball was a relatively new sport and athletes were wearing uncomfortable, heavy shoes that were not designed for the court. Converse's vision was to create a lightweight, flexible, and durable shoe specifically for basketball players.

In 1917, the Converse Rubber Company introduced the All Star, which quickly became the company's most famous product. The All Star was the first basketball shoe to feature a high-top design and the first to be made out of rubber. The shoe was an instant hit with basketball players and became a cultural icon over the next several decades. The All Star was worn by countless sports legends, including Wilt Chamberlain, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan, as well as musicians and artists like The Ramones and Andy Warhol.

During World War II, the Converse Rubber Company shifted its focus to producing footwear for the military. The company produced millions of shoes for soldiers and established itself as a key player in the American war effort. After the war, Converse returned to producing civilian footwear and continued to innovate in the world of athletic shoes.

Despite its success, the Converse Rubber Company struggled financially throughout the latter half of the 20th century. In 2001, the company filed for bankruptcy and was subsequently bought out by Nike, Inc. Today, the Converse brand is still going strong and remains a favorite among athletes and fashion-conscious consumers alike. The All Star, which has undergone several design changes over the years, is still one of the most popular shoes in the world.

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