Gambling is an activity that can both provide entertainment and lead to one’s bankruptcy. It is possible to note that it is in the Americans’ blood from the sides of Native Americans and the Pilgrims to bet. Many institutions and the Revolution were funded using lotteries, which is a form of gambling. It also accompanied some of the country’s crucial historical events. This essay will examine the history of gambling in the US and how it connects with the current times.
From the arrival of the first European settlers to the Revolutionary War, gambling played a significant role in the US’s early history. It was popular among all classes, which eventually led to the establishment of gambling cities. However, an incident involving hanged gamblers pushed betting to riverboats, where it flourished with cheating elements until the Civil War put a temporary stop to riverboat gambling. Meanwhile, the Gold Rush introduced a modern form of casino in the West, where female bookers were in demand. Although gambling had its opponents, it persisted in the barely legal form.
At the turn of the 19th century, horse racing became a prominent sport. It was also a breeding ground for betting, which was initially successful but became outlawed along with prostitution. The underworld era of gambling lasted until the establishment of Las Vegas, which attracted people first from Los Angeles, then from the entire country, with World War II only strengthening the city’s position. Meanwhile, horse racing was revived and started using pari-mutuel betting to circumvent the laws. Simultaneously, there was a rise in sports-related gambling, such as point-shaving. However, even publicized court hearings could not halt betting, and the wave that started with the Great Depression continues nowadays, although with noticeable addiction issues.