It all started in 1933, when Sol Koffler put his life savings on the line to start a luggage company in Providence, Rhode Island. His dream was to build a tough suitcase that could sell for a dollar. He succeeded, and decades of innovation followed by 1945, air travel was taking off and lighter luggage was in high demand. So American Touristers Hi-Taper was designed tapered luggage that was lighter and easier to pack. The 50s found the company experimenting with new materials to make the worlds first molded luggage. The distinctive modern design could really take a beating. The concept has since been copied, but never equaled. As international travel soared in the 60s, American Tourister was the first company to flight test their bags with flight attendants from major airlines. It was this research and insight that brought about more innovations like the springless, cam-action lock that wouldnt jam. In the 80s and 90s, the company continued to design hardside products, while also responding to e shift in demand for softside durable cases that could withstand even the toughest quality critic, a gorilla.American Tourister is a brand of Samsonite Corporations.