The History of Blackjack
Blackjack originated from the then popular French game Vingt-en-Un, meaning twenty one.
By the mere sound of it, you would think the two are very different games that could not possibly be reconciled. That impression, however, can easily be disproved. >
For one, Vingt-en-Un means twenty one. In Blackjack, if you get an Ace of Spades and a Jack of Spades, you will qualify for a special prize. Getting these two cards is referred to as a Twenty and A, the same name of the French card game.
More than this strand of similarity, they also have the same procedures, except for a few notable differences. One of these differences is the betting process. Unlike Blackjack, the French game calls for a betting round after each round.
The Importation of Blackjack
Blackjack wouldn’t be as famous now had it not been imported to the United States. This happened some time succeeding the French Revolution. However, it took many years for this to happen.
In the United States, the popularity of the game was fast and sure. After all, it was one of the few card games that promised huge chances of financial success. Also, there were no laws regarding card games and gambling, so its popularity was almost infectious.
Thereafter, many winning schemes were created in order to succeed in the game. At the peak of its popularity in mid-19th century, the US government has had to impose measures that will regulate the gambling game. Their reason behind this is the lavish corruption of the human mind through organized crimes and addiction.
Not long after, the restriction on Blackjack became a total ban with, of course, the opposition of the public.
However, the ban on Blackjack did not stop its unstoppable rise to further popularity. Precisely such is the reason why it was legalized in Nevada, Las Vegas in 1931.
As long as there has been blackjack in America, there have been people who have tried to cheat at blackjack. This was notoriously easier back in the old days because the blackjack dealer only had one deck to play with.
Of course, you had to be very careful when you were cheating back in the days when the mob ruled Las Vegas. It wasn't quite as simple as getting kicked out of the casino like you would today. Cheaters were taken into the back room and taught a tough lesson.
Starting in the 1950's through the 70's, card counting came into full swing. Having only one deck made it very easy for people to try to guess when to bet big. Because of this practice, you will rarely ever see a single deck blackjack game that doesn't get reshuffled after each deal.
Another move that the casinos made was to add multiple decks (called a shoe) in order to get the advantage back. Card counting can still be done, but is more difficult and you can't make it look like you are doing it or else you may be asked to leave.
Heroes of Blackjack
The heroes of Blackjack are known for their contribution to the understanding of Blackjack, not just for their renowned excellence and specialization in the game. One of these pioneers is Roger Baldwin. He was responsible for using statistical methods in understanding the odds of winning in the game.
He was followed by Edward Thorp, who published a book entitled Beat the Dealer. In this book is a detailed account of how to rely on math to win in Blackjack, as well as the science behind the game. But probably the most influential is Ken Unston, dubbed as The Big Player. He has made millions in the game for using computers.
