A History of Baccarat
The origins of casino card games are difficult to ascertain, as myths and legends often intertwine with the established facts, making it difficult to distinguish which is which. The history of Baccarat is no exception.
All that is known for certain in the history of Baccarat is that by the late 15th century, a card game called baccara was being played in several parts of Italy. The word meant zero, as does the word Baccarat today. It is also believed that Kings, Queens and Jacks also had zero point values.
Where the game was ultimately derived from remains a mystery. A lot of historical researchers believe that it was taken from a variation of the tarot deck. The Tarot is also held by some authorities to have been the source of modern Poker. Yet another theory for the origin of Baccarat are ancient Etruscan rites, based on the worship of nine deities.
Whatever its exact origin, the next important step in the history of Baccarat was its gaining popularity in France. Although the game is believed to be Italian in origin, there are those who insist that it originated in France all along.
The only thing that can be ascertained is that by the end of the 15th century, Chemin-de-Fer had become the card game of choice among high rollers and the upper class citizens of the country. It also made its way to England, where it was embraced by the aristocracy. It was at this point that Baccarat probably got its image as being exclusive for the rich and famous.
The history of Baccarat in America began late. While most card games were introduced in the 1600-1800s, Baccarat made its way into the United States in the early 1900s, specifically in Palm Beach. Owing perhaps to its reputation, it was not as well received as the others.
From the Untied States, the game made its way to South America in the 1950s. It was in Argentina and Havana that Baccarat underwent several rule modifications, the most significant being that the gamblers had to bet against the house. This innovation led to its inclusion in more gambling venues.
The game eventually made its way back to America by way of Las Vegas. Although it was still seen as a game for high rollers, the introduction of mini Baccarat would lead to an increase in its popularity as other players could now play the game with limited bets. Today, mini Baccarat is still very popular in Vegas casinos.
The history of Baccarat would undergo more changes, as would the entire gambling industry, with the phenomenal growth of the Internet. Suddenly everyone had the chance to play the game once reserved for those in high society.
As the game became more in demand, more and more online casinos began to include it in their repertoire. Today most of the well known gambling sites offer the game and its numerous variants.
While the situation and circumstances have changed, Baccarat still retains its appeal among the rich and its aura of elegance has not diminished.
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