The 1800s were a time of great change in the United States. From the beginning of the Industrial Revolution to the expansion of railroads, many new forms of entertainment began popping up throughout the country. One such form was gambling, which quickly became a popular pastime among both men and women alike.
Gambling had been around since the dawn of civilization, but it really took off in America during the 1800s. Saloons and riverboats became widespread across much of the country as places to gamble and socialize. People would play various games like poker, roulette, blackjack, and many others. Gambling houses also served as venues for illegal activities such as prostitution and bribery.
Although gambling was widely accepted in some parts of society, there were those who strongly opposed it. Groups such as ministers, temperance leagues, and reformers fought against the spread of gambling due to its perceived immorality and potential for crime. Eventually most states passed laws banning or regulating gambling establishments and other gaming places.
The popularity of gambling began to decline in the early 1900s as more people joined religious organizations or embraced temperance movements. With prohibition becoming law in 1920, all forms of gambling were outlawed throughout much of America until 1931 when Nevada legalized casino-style gaming within its borders. Other states soon followed suit with their own regulations on wagering activities including lotteries and horse racing tracks.
Today we still see remnants from this earlier age with casinos operating legally in many states and online gaming sites offering real money betting options for players around the globe. The history of American gambling shows us how this activity has evolved over time while remaining an important part of our culture even today.
