History

Roulette, which originated in France in the 18th century, is a popular casino game that involves players betting on the outcome of a spinning wheel and a small ball. The game’s name comes from the French word “roulette” which means “little wheel”.

The earliest form of roulette, called “Roulette Royale”, was created by French mathematician and physicist Blaise Pascal in the 17th century. Pascal was trying to create a perpetual motion machine but instead ended up with the roulette wheel.

In the 18th century, roulette became a popular game in European casinos. The first roulette wheel was a wooden wheel with pockets for the numbers 1 to 36, as well as a single zero pocket. The numbers were arranged in alternating red and black pockets.

In the 19th century, roulette was introduced to the United States, where it became popular in the casinos of New Orleans. At this time, the roulette wheel was modified to include an additional pocket, the double zero, which increased the house edge.

In the early 20th century, roulette became illegal in many parts of the United States. However, it remained popular in Europe and continued to evolve. Today, roulette is played in casinos around the world and is available in both traditional and online forms.