1. YOUR PREDECESSORS
It is believed that the name originates from "Phochen," "Poca," or "Poque." However, the rules and at least the concept of bluffing are linked to the term "Brag," derived from the word "Brelen." The concept was also present in other games, but these were the most popular ones. Some modern theories, specifically the theory presented in "A World of Chance: Betting On Religious Games" by the University of Cambridge press, would suggest otherwise, stating that the name of the game would have derived from the fundamental principles of card games.
2. The Birth of Poker.
There are two schools of thought, one suggesting that it evolved over the years from existing games, and another version positing that the game was independently invented without any influence from other games. The latter proposes that poker in Canada originated in the mid-18th century and subsequently spread throughout the Mississippi region. It was played in a wide variety of versions, including straight, stud, and even 20-card poker. The development of the game of poker is intertwined with a historical movement that also bolstered its commercial appeal. According to Joseph Crowell, an English actor, the game was played in New Orleans in 1829 with a deck of 20 cards.
3. RULES THAT CAME LATER
Numerous additions were incorporated into the game during the American Civil War, including the straight and the five-card hand. The inclusion of the flush did not occur until the 1850s, which coincided with the adoption of 52-card decks. It wasn't until 1925 that community card games like Texas Hold'em were invented. Throughout this period, poker underwent significant development, introducing new elements that have since become integral to the game's rich history.
4. Timeline: Commercial Gaming in the United States
In 1931, online gambling was legalized in the state of Nevada. Las Vegas saw the opening of the Flamingo in 1947, which was operated by the infamous Bugsy Siegel, a notorious gangster.
In 1950, the Senate Committee investigates Organized Crime in Commerce across multiple states. In 1955, legislation is enacted in Nevada regarding the division of gaming control. The State of Nevada establishes the State Gaming Commission in 1959.
In 1961, the Wire Act came into effect, prohibiting interstate gambling. Then in 1973, Harrah's Entertainment made history as the inaugural "pure" casino to be publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange.
In 1976, the state of New Jersey became the second state to legalize online casino gambling. Opening its doors in 1989, the Mirage Hotel and Casino Resort emerged in Las Vegas, marking its entry into the era as one of the foremost destinations on the list of casino resorts.
In 1995, the American Gambling Association was established by the commercial casino industry, following the legalization of gambling in South Dakota in 1989.
In 2006, the UIGEA was enacted, making online gambling illegal.
In the 2011 Black Friday, legal action was taken by the government against online gambling establishments across multiple states. This event marked a significant crackdown on the internet gaming industry, as authorities sought to curb its proliferation. The targeted brands faced severe penalties and regulatory measures, which had a profound impact on their operations and profitability. This legislative move aimed to ensure the adherence to gambling regulations and protect consumers from potential risks associated with online gambling. The consequences of this intervention were far-reaching, altering the landscape of the online gaming sector and prompting a shift in the way players and operators approached the industry.
In 2011, the Wire Act applies solely to sports betting.
In 2013, online gambling was legalized in the state of Nevada.
In 2013, more states are following in the footsteps of Nevada.
5. ONLINE POKER
Planet Poker was the inaugural online poker room to be launched in 1998. In 2003, Chris Moneymaker emerged victorious in a tournament hosted by Pokerstars, gaining entry into the prestigious WSOP, which he ultimately won, thereby validating the realm of online poker. Through strategic acquisitions of Black Friday and Full Tilt, Pokerstars ascended to become the largest poker network globally.
6. THE USER CHRIS MONEYMAKER
The poker revolution of 2003 occurred when a player made history by becoming the first to qualify for an online poker tournament on a poker website. Ever since, poker has gained immense popularity, giving birth to a phenomenon known as the "Moneymaker effect." This game has now become widely recognized as a global phenomenon, captivating players from all walks of life.
7. WSOP
The World Series of Poker (WSOP, for short) is a sequence of poker tournaments held annually in the vibrant city of Las Vegas. This captivating competition was officially launched in 2005, but it traces its roots back to 1970 when the most skilled poker players on the planet would convene at the renowned Horseshoe Casino to engage in a thrilling battle of wits in a single tournament. Throughout the years, the tournament has flourished both in terms of the number of events organized and the multitude of participants eager to test their mettle. The victor of this illustrious event not only garners a substantial cash prize amounting to millions of dollars but also takes home a coveted bracelet, serving as a symbol of their triumph. By emerging victorious, the champion is bestowed with the esteemed title of being recognized as a true global poker master.
