Magic Box Poker Online

The History of Poker

Poker is probably one of the most played card games in casinos world wide. It can be said that the popularity of poker is unsurpassed throughout the history of modern gaming. But up to now it is very difficult to trace the origins of poker. There are debates among game historians to how poker came about and how it became one of the well-loved games we know today.

The earliest reference to the game of poker was made by Jonathan H. Green in his writings in 1833. According to Green, card games that are referred to as "cheating games" were popular on boats in the Mississippi River. One of the most popular card games is similar to poker. This is a card game played using twenty cards, composed of a Kings, Queens, Jacks, Aces and Tens. This 20-card cheating game became so popular, that it even became more famous than 3-card Monte because card game players believed the poker is more legitimate than 3-card Monte.

It can also be noted that some game historians believe that the term poker was derived from the underworld slang "poke," used by pickpockets. Cardsharps in Mississippi Boats used this term as a reference to the 20 card game and added it with an-r to become poker.

The popularity of poker extended to the Wild West. There is no saloon of pub without a poker table to entertain each patron. Local and foreign visitors often meet in these saloons either to transact business or plain fun. Thus, poker became not only a favorite pastime but also a catalyst for socialization.

Meanwhile, the dawn of 20th century saw the growing popularity of casinos and modern card rooms. Saloons and pubs gave way to these new establishments as the new venue for poker game. From then on, poker tables never ran out of patrons. This brought to a new height of popularity for poker. Instantly, poker became a big hit and brought huge amount of profit both for the casino owners and poker enthusiasts.

During the last half of the 20th century, improvements in technology paved the way for poker to gain even more popularity. Online versions of poker were developed. With this, poker became very much accessible to a wider range of population. One can even enjoy a game of poker in the comfort of his own home.

It is indeed amazing how poker retained its popularity despite of changing times. Poker has witness vast changes in the gaming world, along with the types of people that patronize this well-loved card game. Sure enough there will always be changes but one fact will always remain, poker's popularity will continue as it gives immeasurable fun and excitement throughout generations.