Monday, July 28, 2008

Poker Has Been Around For Centuries

By Mr. Casino Bonus

People have been playing poker since the 1700's. It is claimed to be the oldest game that has not varied much over the years. It is believed that it will last for centuries more.

Historians claim that three versions of poker have been around for centuries. most historians allege these three countries are the basis of modern day poker Persia as the game of as nas, Germany as pochspiel, and France as poque. Poker's name derives from the French word poque, which translates to English as "to bluff."

The origins of the game have been debated for years. No one will ever know exactly from where poker came. However, there is no argument that it is an exciting and fun game to play.

Poker became popular during the Revolutionary War in the United States. The game of choice for soldiers was the version of stud that used only three cards. The five-card version of stud became a useful diversion during the Civil War.

A 20-card deck was dealt to four soldiers. The lower cards, 2 through 9 were eliminated for this version. The players bet on which one of them would have the better 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.

Poker got its start in New Orleans during the early 1800's, it is also believed. Through riverboats then the game expanded up the Mississippi river. This is where riverboat casinos on the Mississippi got their start too.

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.

Seven-card stud is the most popular version of poker played in modern days. Las Vegas casinos made it famous in recent years. Specially made for the seven-card game called Texas Hold'em, tournaments and tables have been put to good use.

Still played today in many casinos and online, the many different versions developed through the years. The three card version is the only type that did not make it through evolution. It is lost in the past now.

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.

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