Where It All Began
While the modern casino is a relatively recent invention, the act of gambling is as old as civilization itself. From ancient China to the Roman Empire, people have always been drawn to the thrill of risking something for a greater prize.
Italy's Contribution to Gambling History
It's no surprise that the word casino comes from Italy, as this is where the first public gambling house was established. The first known state-sanctioned public gambling house was the Ridotto, established in Venice, Italy, in 1638. It was initially restricted to the aristocracy and served to formalize what had previously been a chaotic and unregulated activity.
The Rise of European Spa Towns and Monte Carlo
The 19th century saw the spread of elegant casinos to resort towns throughout Europe. But none became more legendary than the Monte Carlo Casino. Its creation was a strategic move to solve the financial troubles of the House of Grimaldi.
How Vegas Became the Casino Capital
In the United States, casino (goldfish.it) gambling was prevalent in saloons across the "Wild West" during the 19th century. This was followed by a period of moral reform that saw gambling outlawed across the country. The turning point came in 1931 when Nevada, seeking revenue during the economic crisis, casino re-legalized casino gambling. This decision paved the way for the development of Las Vegas, which transformed from a small desert town into the undisputed entertainment and casino capital of the world.
The Digital Revolution: The Online Casino Era
The latest and perhaps most significant evolution in casino history came with the advent of the internet in the 1990s. These early platforms were basic but proved the concept of virtual gambling. Now, online and mobile casinos form a massive global industry, making gaming more accessible than ever before.