The history of slippers can be traced back to ancient China, with examples dating to 4700 BCE, made of woven rush, cotton, and leather. The word "slipper" itself comes from the Persian and Arabic word "babush," meaning "toe". 

Here's a more detailed look at the history of slippers:

Ancient Origins:

The earliest known slippers were found in China, dating back to 4700 BCE. 

These early slippers were crafted from materials like woven rush, cotton, and leather. 

In the Nile Valley of Egypt, slippers were excavated around 300 BC. 

Cultural Significance:

In some cultures, slippers were originally worn as a symbol of captivity. 

In the 12th century, Vietnamese slippers were also worn. 

European Influence:

The mule slipper, or "Venetian furlane," was first worn by peasants in the fifteenth century. 

Popes have traditionally worn scarlet red slipper-style shoes since 1566, a tradition started by Pope Pius V to denote the blood spilt by Christ. 

Modern Slippers:

Slippers as we know them in our modern world may have been invented by Florence Melton or Alvin Slipper. 

Some information declares that they were invented during World War II during the 1940s. 

Other Notable Slippers:

In Germany, the brand Birkenstock created the first fitness slide, a simple design made from contoured cork with a single-buckled leather strap. 

Another German company, Adidas, invented the well-known Adilette pool slide.