Although casinos might be buildings that you now see regularly, this was not always the case. Then, here is a short history of casinos that will give you a new appreciation for them and their role in the history of gambling.
The Earliest Casinos
The earliest casinos were first set up in Italy in the 17th century, although gambling had been a big part of human history before this. These casinos then expanded to the rest of Europe in the 19th century until they got to the point where they were found in every big city.
In the United States, gambling operated in mostly underground venues throughout the 1800s. It was banned in the early 20th century, along with prohibition coming into law. However, gambling and so casinos were legalized in Nevada in the 1930s due to an attempt to bring money into the state throughout the Great Depression.
However, gambling laws were again enforced more strictly come the 1940s when Nevada and the city of Las Vegas became the home of notorious criminals who owned illegal gambling venues. Eventually, investors began to open legitimate casinos, and these became popular with people looking for something new.
Casino Resorts
However, as casinos began to be legalized in more and more states throughout the 20th century, resorts began to pop up and attract gamblers from all across the United States and beyond. These elegant establishments allowed clients to relax on vacation while also playing their hand at gambling games and tables, and this is an experience that you can still enjoy today.
For instance, the Sycuan resort in San Diego offers casino table games, as well as golfing facilities, and a spa, meaning that the casino is only one of many activities that you can enjoy within their peaceful environment.
Online Casinos
However, you do not always have to go on vacation to be able to enjoy casino games now, though. From the early 2000s, when new legislation on online gambling was finally passed, online gambling began to become more popular, as it afforded people a way to play casino games without ever once having to leave their house.
The popularity of online gambling increased with the rise of mobile apps and gaming. This has allowed people to gamble while they are on the move, wherever they are, without having to start up and log onto their computer or laptop. This has now become the most predominant form of gambling in many places, with people able to play everything from poker to fantasy baseball online.
Casinos and gambling have a long and colorful history both in the United States and beyond. However, now it is a flourishing industry that keeps up with the latest technologies that are being made available and which can offer an excellent way to pass the time for many people, whether they want to grow their wages or simply enjoy a night out with friends. Casinos would not be so popular today, though, if they were not without their rich and explosive history.
