Where It All Began
While the modern casino is a relatively recent invention, the act of gambling is as old as civilization itself. Evidence of gambling, such as ancient dice, exists from thousands of years ago, with many classical texts referencing wagers and games of chance.

Italy's Contribution to Gambling History
The word "casino" itself is of Italian origin, casino meaning "little house." The first known state-sanctioned public gambling house was the Ridotto, established in Venice, Italy, in 1638. This establishment was aimed at the nobility and helped bring order to the widespread practice of carnival-time betting.

The Rise of European Spa Towns and Monte Carlo
Throughout the 1800s, casino grand casinos emerged in European spa destinations, casino attracting the rich and famous. But none became more legendary than the Monte Carlo Casino. The casino was an economic project that quickly became a symbol of luxury, glamour, and high-stakes gambling for the world's elite.

The American Frontier and the Las Vegas Boom
During America's westward expansion, gambling was a common pastime in the rough-and-tumble saloons of the era. By the early 1900s, anti-gambling movements had succeeded in making it illegal in most states. The turning point came in 1931 when Nevada, seeking revenue during the economic crisis, re-legalized casino gambling. From this single legislative act, Las Vegas began its journey to becoming the world-famous "Sin City."

The Latest Chapter in Casino History
The internet's arrival in the 1990s marked the beginning of the most profound transformation for the casino industry. These early platforms were basic but proved the concept of virtual gambling. Today, the online casino industry is a multi-billion dollar global market, casino bringing the casino experience to millions of players on their computers and mobile devices.