The fact that gambling and wagering are ancient is clearly evident from various tales and myths. In many ancient mythologies the various gods and goddesses themselves are prone to gambling. Perhaps even in our own Bible, the book of Job actually reflects such a wager between G-d and Satan as to the righteousness of Job. Likewise, drawing lots seems to be a well established form of determining the will of G-d in many Bible stories (even the Promised Land is divided amongst the twelve tribes by drawing lots). Thus, we can see that betting and gambling are an integral part of our culture as well as many other ancient cultures. Dice playing is even mentioned in such ancient Indian manuscripts as the Rig Veda and the Atharva Veda.
Gambling in Archeology
Aside from such literary examples, there are several archeological proofs that indeed gambling and wagering were ancient pastimes. This is demonstrated by finding implements of gambling at some of the most ancient archeological sites. A classic example of this is the ancient backgammon set excavated from the Burnt City, an Iranian archeological site that is dated to be about 5000 years old.
Betting and Gambling Games around the Globe
Since gambling is such an integral part of society, it is only natural that this natural tendency should evolve into a wide variety of games of chance. The creativity of the human race knows no bounds and ingenious people all over the world have invented all sorts of gambling games. The Chinese probably invented cards and the most ancient lotteries (keno games financed the wall of China!) whereas the French developed the Roulette. Successful games gained in popularity and quickly spread throughout the world.
Gambling Today
In today's modern world, there are many countries where certain forms of gambling are considered legal and are state regulated. In some instances the gambling is actually run by the state with the revenues going to the state. An example of this is state lotteries. Gambling on the Internet is perhaps one of the most frequent uses of the Internet and probably one of the most ancient. With the advancement of mobile phone technology the same gambling has moved to the mobiles. Today anyone can place a bet on practically anything he desires. He is sure to find odds offered for any conceivable outcome.
