The History of Poker
Poker has been played for centuries. It is claimed to be the oldest game that has lasted through the ages. It has evolved and will remain for centuries more.
There are three claimed origins of poker. The Persian game of as nas, German pochspiel, and French poque are the sources most historians allege were the basis of modern day poker. Poker’s name derives from the French poque.
Historians have been debating the origins of poker from decades. No one really knows from where poker exactly originated. However, none of them argue that poker is a fabulously pleasing game.
In the United Says, poker became popular during the Revolutionary War. The version of stud that used only three cards was the game of choice for soldiers. The five-card version became useful distraction during the Civil War.
Five-card poker began as a game for four people who were dealt the entire amount of a 20-card deck. This version eliminated the lower cards of a normal 52-card deck. The object of this game was to bet on who would have the best hand.
Once the game included all of the cards in a 52-card deck, the game became more complicated. With the lower cards involved, the game also gained more popularity. This popularity brought poker further than just a simple game between soldiers trying to forget where they were.
Historians also believe that poker became a gambling game in New Orleans during the 1800’s expansion. It was next found on the riverboats traveling up and down the Mississippi. Riverboats can still be found with poker as a main attraction.
It is believed that the gold miners brought poker through the west into California. As it traveled through the west, casinos and saloons picked it up as daily sport. This institutionalized poker as a “wild west” staple.
In modern days, seven-card stud was claimed to be a Texan game. This version has become exponentially popular in Las Vegas. This popularity carried the seven-card game called Texas Hold’em into the mainstream.
The different versions can be found at any casino and online. The only version that didn’t make it into the pop culture of America is the original three-card version. This version seems to have stayed in the past.
Many things last throughout time, but poker is probably the most exciting. The longevity of the game thus far proves its durability and addictiveness. While some things may wane with time, poker will be around forever.