Gambling has a long and colorful history. Just like with sex, it has been around since time immemorial. There is, no doubt, something about the high of setting stakes on something you have that feels quite thrilling.
In this article, we’ll discuss a brief history of gambling!
The Earliest Evidence
Ancient China’s Book of Songs marks the earliest existence of gambling. This piece of evidence refers to a wood drawing, which implies that the tiles may have become a component of a lottery game. In 200 BC, in China, there was a record that items were used as funds for financing government projects. This act was called Keno slips.
Moreover, researchers have verified that the first game of cards appeared in China during the 19th century.
On the other hand, it has been severely curtailed, as evidenced by the laws of ancient China and Rome in the Jewish Talmud and by Islam and Buddhism. In ancient Egypt, those who were avid gamblers faced the risk of being sent to forced labor in the quarries.
Ironically enough, gambling’s roots are divinatory in origin, which is not surprising, considering what has become of gambling’s most popular games: the games of chance. Man sought the wisdom of the divine and knowledge of fate from the gods and their intentions by throwing marked sticks and throwing around objects. After the throw, the outcomes were studied and interpreted.
Across the Bible, there have been references to casting lots to divide property. All four (4) Gospels mention that Jesus’ garments were divided based on lots released by Roman guards, and antigambling proponents have used this example. However, in the context of the ancient world, casting lots has always been more connected with fate and inevitable destiny. Anthropologists assert that gambling is more common in societies with strong beliefs in gods and spirits, whose divine knowledge and benevolence are often sought.
Ancient Greeks and Romans, particularly, enjoyed the idea of a game with nothing but personal belongings as wagers. However, gambling games were prohibited in Rome. Those who were caught had to quadruple their wagers.
Blackjack
Some researchers have been speculating on the origins of this beloved game. Originating in Spain, Blackjack’s roots trace back to Ventiuna, which is translated to twenty-one (21). The game Ventiuna thus became an early iteration of the game we now enjoy.
What we now know as Blackjack was innovated in and by America to promote casinos in Nevada during the 1930s. The game had to have 1 to 10 odds for each player – this was a deliberate move to attract potential customers and players. The key to victory in the game would be if they had an Ace of Spades and a black Jack of Clubs or Spades. Thus, the name was taken from this combo.
Shifting Perceptions
There are still differing perceptions of gambling over the shift of time. Some may have called gambling a sin. Others felt that it was human behavior. However, it has become a balancing act – good if people practiced it in moderation, not excess.
Online baccarat, available online, has also become a thing.
Wrapping Up
Gambling has had a warped perception over time, twisted by people who want different things. However, in a way, it is a way to seek the divine for “chance” and knowledge. Although the standards of our time today have changed, it is still a fun activity that can be enjoyed in moderation.
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