The Origin of Roulette

Few gambling enthusiasts would argue that of all the games in the casino, none is more exotic than Roulette. Most players bet on numbers based on their 'intuition" or what they believe are lucky. That superstition plays a part will not surprise anyone who studies its origin.

While there are a few scholars who argue otherwise, the consensus is that the history of Roulette began in France. The idea of a spinning wheel with numbers may be old, the evidence unearthed says that the first Roulette wheel was invented by Blaine Pascal in 1655. However, it is unclear if the scientist/mathematician had gambling in mind when he constructed the apparatus or was merely interested in trying out certain formulas and theories.

Startlingly enough, the device that would become the symbol of casinos worldwide first gained popularity in monasteries where the instrument was used to pass away the time.

Eventually the game found its way into the streets of Paris, and it was here that the history of Roulette became forever intertwined with casinos. In 1842, Luis and Francois Blanc, two gambling operators, saw the potential of the device and decided to include it in their casinos.

There is a legend concerning how the numbers 0 to 36 where chosen; according to the story, the two men summoned (or were visited by) the Devil. Giving up their souls for material success, the two were instructed on how to device the perfect Roulette wheel, and were told to use the numbers 0 to 36. When added, the total is 666, which the Book of Revelation states is the number of the beast.

Needless to say there is no historical basis for this, but it is a tale often told, and one that serves to further spice up the game.

The history of Roulette in America began, as did a majority of the other gambling games, with the arrival of the colonists in the 1800s. Spreading rapidly across the country, the wheel was modified to include another zero. Although the odds for the casino increased it still turned into a huge hit. Soon enough the game became a staple in venues, often attracting high rollers and those in the higher upper class.

The online gambling revolution has changed the history of Roulette as well. Now it has become possible for anyone to play the game at anytime, anywhere. Yet for all the technological innovations, the old world mystique remains.