Gambling is considered one of the oldest forms of entertainment, and there are several versions about the time and place of their origin. The essence of gambling is investing money in any game of chance, risking, and in case of winning, getting a reward. How did gambling appear? Let’s find out!
Ancient Times
According to the historical evidence, it is believed that people have been gambling since the days of ancient civilizations. Of course, this is not about the history of slots but about a simpler form of gambling – the dice. In Roman times, dice were played by both peasants and emperors. The dice themselves were found in the ruins of Pompeii.
Ancient China also used dice to divide the country’s territory. In 100 AD, the kings of Sweden and Norway also decided to find out who would own the territory of Hissing in this way. This story of how the world leaders, instead of war and diplomatic agreements, solved the problem with the help of this ancient game.
New Times
In the 17th century, roulette was invented in France and became one of the most popular casino games in the world. Roulette quickly gained popularity throughout Europe and after a while crossed the Atlantic, where during the Gold Rush it became one of the most popular American entertainment. Besides, in the 18th and 19th centuries, such famous games as blackjack and poker appeared, which became an integral part of the entertainment industry in Europe and America.
The very first slot machine was invented in New York only at the end of the 19th century, and it consisted of reels with symbols that began to rotate when money was placed in the machine. The first slot machine did not have a payout mechanism, so winnings or prizes could only be received at the bar, for example, in the form of free drinks or cigars.
The 20th Century
In the twentieth century, slot machines went through several significant stages of development. To reduce manufacturing costs and simplify the gambling process, the original iron slot machines were replaced with wooden ones, which also reduced the noise from the clinking coins and the spinning reels. Over time, slot machines appeared with games on various topics, which attracted the attention of women and became a wonderful pastime.
The 60s became the most important stage in the development of slots when mechanical devices were replaced by electromechanical, which were considered much more reliable.
The heyday of the Internet led to the emergence of the first online casinos, in which at first only classic games were available, i.e., roulette and blackjack. In recent years, any restrictions on the creation of games have been removed, new interesting types of games with an unusual plot have appeared, attracting more and more new players.
Nowadays, it becomes clear that gambling is in humans’ DNA because it managed to survive throughout the centuries. By the way, what is your favorite casino game? Share with us in the comments.
