Gambling: A World of Gaming

Today's fast paced world of online gaming sees millions of people using PC's, tablets and even smart phones allowing us to play whatever games we want, whenever we choose to. However, has it ever occurred to you as you electronically spin the roulette wheel, roll the dice or wager on a poker hand, where it all began?

The exact beginning of gambling, meaning 'To play, jest, be merry', is generally unknown. It is noted throughout history that the wealthy members of various different societies and civilisations have enjoyed the pastime. With it widely believed that the Chinese first documented the practice of gambling in some form during 2300BC in a primitive form, it seems a millions miles away from the more recognised form of today's online gaming world on casino and bingo websites.

The word 'Casino' is synonymous with places of glamour and wealth such as Las Vegas, Monte Carlo and maybe most recently in Dubai. However, did you know the word itself finds its heritage in Italy? The name comes from the word "Casa" which means small villa or summerhouse where communities would host events for the town such as celebrations of dancing, music and of course gambling.

Europe's first recognised casino was thought to be in Venice, Italy in the early 17th century where it would open for carnival season. Yet, it would be hundreds of years before the birth of the commercial casinos we know of today, with the UK's first casinos such as the Clermont club being recognised due to changes to the Gaming Act in the 1960's.

Of course with the introduction of the internet in the 1990's, online gambling has become available to people worldwide at anytime of the day but when you next click onto your favourite website at least you'll understand the history as you partake in an age old pastime.

 

 

Last Updated 18 October 2013
Gambling - A World of Gaming