Casinos are iconic hubs for entertainment found all across the world. Thousands of people book stays at casino hotels every year, and many travel to Omak, WA to experience the fun at 12 Tribes Colville Casinos. But where did this unique form of entertainment begin? The history of casinos is fascinating, and spans both centuries and continents. They began as simple gambling houses and have since evolved into the lavish resorts we know today. Let’s take a closer look at the history of casinos and how this history led to the founding of 12 Tribes Colville Gaming.
The Ancient Roots of Gambling
While the first true casino didn’t appear until much later, the practice of gambling is as old as civilization itself. For example, the ancient Greeks and Romans were avid gamblers, betting on everything from animal fights to dice games. While these early forms of gambling were informal, they laid the groundwork for more formalized gaming. However, it would still take centuries for a dedicated “casino” to emerge.
The First Official Gambling House
The oldest casino in the world, the Casino di Venezia, sits on the Grand Canal in Venice. Opened in 1638, it was originally a theatre called the Theatre Saint Moses, which had a wing for gambling during the intermissions of plays. It helped spark the start of a casino craze in Venice—by 1744, there were more than 120.
The Rise of European Gambling Hubs
Following the craze in Venice, the casino concept spread across Europe. Spa towns in Germany became popular destinations for the European elite. However, the most famous gambling hub of the 19th century was Monte Carlo in Monaco. Facing bankruptcy in the mid-1800s, Monaco’s ruling family, the Grimaldis, decided to found a casino to generate revenue. The Monte Carlo Casino, which opened its doors in 1863, was an immediate success. Its opulent architecture, stunning coastal location, and association with high society made it the world’s premier gambling destination.
The American Frontier and Saloons
Gambling looked a bit different in the United States. During the 19th century, gambling was widespread in saloons across the American West. Cities like New Orleans, St. Louis, and San Francisco became famous for their gambling establishments. These were far from the sophisticated halls of Monte Carlo, often being rough, lawless places. These establishments played a significant role in the folklore of the Wild West, with legendary figures like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday known as much for their gambling as their gunfighting. However the conservative legislation reform of the early 20th century led to a nationwide crackdown on gambling, pushing the practice underground.
The Birth of Las Vegas
The modern casino industry in the United States dates back to 1931. During the Great Depression, Nevada legalized gambling to boost its economy. This move paved the way for the creation of Las Vegas. Initially, the city’s gaming scene was modest, but after World War II, it began to attract investment, and with it, more players.
Then, the opening of the Flamingo Hotel in 1946 introduced the concept of the casino hotel—a destination offering world-class entertainment, fine dining, and luxurious accommodation alongside the casino floor. This model transformed Las Vegas from a dusty desert town into the “Entertainment Capital of the World.”
What’s Next for the Casino?
From small, informal houses in the ancient world to a global digital network, the casino has continually evolved. It has adapted to social changes, survived moral panics, and embraced technological innovation. At 12 Tribes Casinos, we aim to help shape the future of casinos into a community-centered space where people can come to have fun. With locations serving Omak, Manson, and Coulee Dam, WA, our casinos are designed to provide the ideal weekend getaway, whether you’re a novice at gambling or a high roller. Contact us to learn more about what our casino hotels offer.
