History of Poker

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There is nothing definitive about the origins of the game of poker.  Many experts believe the game has roots dating back 1000 years.  Historians are of the idea that a game played by a Chinese emperor in the 10^th-century is where poker originates. Others believe it is a card game that was performed by Persians called “As Nas” in the 16^th-century.  There is also a French card game called Poque from the 17^th-century that some consider the European origin of poker.Poque and the other card games from China and Persia have very few similarities to modern-day poker.  However, there are many aspects of the ancient games to modern poker that may hold these theories true.

Poque to poker

Poque was brought to North America by the French colonists.  The game spread with riverboat crews on the Mississippi River.  The card game quickly became popular and was played by soldiers during the civil war.  17and 18^th-Century poker was famous in Wild West saloons.  English-speaking people in the region over time changed Poque to poker.

How did the game change?

Poque was a card game that involved betting and bluffing.  The game only used 20 cards, from tens through to aces and included four players.  Through the years of playing, the card game morphed into modern-day poker.  No one knows how Poque went from 20 cards to poker’s 52 card game.  There is no documented history of when a Straight or Flush was introduced to the game.  The consensus is that it is a fun card game to play, and to up the stakes, Poque went through many changes to give us the Poker we have today.

Las Vegas Poker

Although Poker was a favourite card game among everyone, Nevada made gambling illegal in the early 1900’s.  Due to its popularity, authorities found it difficult to control the playing of Poker.  Poker was then made an exception as it was recognised as a game of skill.  On the flipside, Stud poker was still illegal as it was deemed a game of chance.

Once Las Vegas was established in the state of Nevada, all gambling games were allowed.  All forms of Poker could now be played in the casinos.  Since then, Poker has continually evolved and is now a card game enjoyed by millions.

The number of poker players continues to grow due to online casinos.  The internet has exposed the game to a bigger audience.  Poker has over the last few years been formalised into tournaments where players stand a chance to win vast sums of money.  The game has evolved so much that there are professional poker players who make a living just playing or teaching poker.

After the 70’s, poker has increased in popularity due to the first World Series of Poker.  That tournament gave rise to a new type of player – the professional.

Poque has come a long way from the 17^th-century card game in France.  Modern-day poker continues to change and evolve.  New types of poker games are played and adapted all the time.