The Origin of Poker
Jonathan Green's account of a game played by people along the Mississippi River in 1834 is probably the first American account of the game of Poker. Green wrote in his journal that Poker is played with 20 cards. Poker, in his account, only included the face cards, tens, and aces. Five cards were given to the Poker players, usually ranging from 2 to five players per game. When Green described Poker in his writings, Poker was already very popular. Thus, it is believed that the American version of Poker was started by the boatmen of the Mississippi River.
Historians argue on the origin of the word Poker. In some available Poker literature, Poker is believed to have come from the French word "Poque". The Middle East players believe Poker is also the game they know as "Nas". The Italians also have their Poker variation called "Il Frusso". The Germans have a bluffing/cheating game like Poker, which was called "Pochspiel".
The best explanation is the pickpocket slang "poke", originating from the boatmen of Mississippi. It is believed that the French Poker called "Poque", which was brought to America through the Mississippi River, is the same Poker played by the Americans. Mispronunciation of the word probably explains the present name of Poker.
Originally, Poker was a 20-card game. Poker later evolved and became a 32-card game. Presently, Poker has a 52-deck card, which excludes the two jokers.
Poker became popular with its inclusion in many movies. In some literature, Poker was regarded as a social game played by aristocrats, world leaders, and wealthy businessmen. This connotation of Poker gradually vanished as people from all walks of life embraced it, and made it a part of their culture. Today, parties and other socialization events include Poker in their programs.
The birth of the internet and online casinos also gave birth to the online version of Poker - the rules of Poker remain the same, but the setting has been changed. Players can choose to play against the computer, or may opt to wait and challenge other players in the Online Poker Room. Online Poker may be played with play money as bets or with real money bought from the Online casino.
Undoubtedly, Poker and its many variations have become one of the most popular games in the history of mankind. A variety of literature has been written about Poker, and made available to Poker lovers worldwide. Indeed, Poker has secured its place in the world of entertainment, gambling, and social bonding.