Here's a breakdown:
* Early Usage: The word "swag" has been used in the English language since at least the 16th century, meaning "to hang loosely" or "to droop." This usage related to objects hanging down, like a curtain or a rope.
* 19th Century: The word evolved to mean "stolen goods" or "loot", particularly in the context of pirates and criminals.
* Mid-20th Century: It later became associated with "swagger" and "style" in the 1950s and 1960s, especially in the context of young people and counterculture movements.
* Modern Usage: The modern use of "swag" as "coolness" and "confidence" likely emerged in the late 20th century, particularly in hip-hop culture.
Unfortunately, there's no single individual credited with popularizing "swag" in its modern meaning. It likely evolved through a combination of slang and cultural shifts, with different people and groups contributing to its meaning over time.