Who Invented Blackjack? Blackjack Origin & History

Blackjack is a popular card game enjoyed by many people around the world. But have you ever wondered where it came from? The origins of blackjack are quite fascinating and go back hundreds of years. 

The game we now know as blackjack is thought to have started in France in the 1700s. It was originally called “Vingt-et-Un”, which means “Twenty-One” in French. French colonists then brought the game to North America, where it evolved into the blackjack we know today. 

Over time, blackjack became a favourite in casinos due to its simple rules and exciting nature. Understanding the history of blackjack gives us a deeper appreciation of how this beloved game has stood the test of time. Let’s explore its journey from the past to the present. 

Blackjack Origin: Who Invented Blackjack?

The exact inventor of blackjack is unknown, but the game has evolved over time through different cultures. The roots of blackjack can be traced back to a French card game called “Vingt-et-Un”, which translates to “Twenty-One”. People in France started playing this game in the 1700s. 

Another theory suggests that Roman soldiers played a similar game using wooden blocks with different numbers. However, the evidence supporting this theory is not very strong. 

As “Vingt-et-Un” gained popularity, it spread to other countries. When French colonists arrived in North America, they brought the game with them. Over time, the rules changed, and the game became what we now know as blackjack. 

In the early 20th century, American casinos adapted the game further. They introduced a special bonus payout for getting an Ace of Spades and a black Jack (Spades or Clubs), which is how the game got its modern name, blackjack. 

By understanding these origins, we gain a better appreciation of how blackjack has transformed and why it remains a favourite today. 

Why Is Blackjack Called Blackjack?

The name “blackjack” has an interesting origin. When the game of “Twenty-One” made its way to America, casinos wanted to attract more players. So, they came up with a special promotion. 

This promotion offered a bonus payout. If a player got a hand with an Ace of Spades and a black Jack, either of Clubs or Spades, they would receive a special prize. This is how the name “blackjack” started. 

The original bonus started it, and the name stayed. Today, if you have a 2-card hand totalling 21, we call it a ‘natural’ or a ‘blackjack’, and it awards a higher payout if you win. Although the focus is no longer on the hand containing a black-suited Jack, the bonus (although adapted) and the name have stuck. 

The History of Blackjack

Blackjack has a rich history that spans several centuries. The game is believed to have originated in France in the 1700s, as mentioned earlier. This early version of the game grew popular in French gambling houses. 

As French colonists travelled to North America, they brought “Vingt-et-Un” with them. In the United States, the game underwent changes. American casinos modified the rules to make the game more appealing to their patrons. 

One significant change was the bonus for a hand that included an Ace of Spades and a black Jack. This special payout is how the modern game got its name: blackjack. 

The game continued to evolve throughout the 20th century. Casinos in Las Vegas popularised blackjack by promoting it as an exciting and straightforward card game. This helped blackjack become one of the most played games in casinos worldwide. 

Today, blackjack is enjoyed in many forms, from traditional casino tables to online platforms. Its simple yet engaging rules make it accessible to both beginners and seasoned players. The history of blackjack shows how a game can adapt and thrive through cultural and historical changes. 

Who Came Up With Basic Strategy?

The concept of basic strategy in blackjack was developed to help players make the statistically best decisions based on their cards and the dealer’s visible card. It was not invented by a single person but developed over time through the study of the game. 

The most significant development in basic strategy came about in the 1950s. A mathematician named Roger Baldwin, along with his colleagues Wilbert Cantey, Herbert Maisel, and James McDermott, used simple hand calculations to come up with a set of rules for playing blackjack. They published their findings in a paper titled “The Optimum Strategy in Blackjack”. 

Their work laid the foundation for understanding the best moves a player should make in different situations. Then, in the 1960s, Edward O. Thorp, a mathematics professor, built on their research. Thorp used computer simulations to refine the basic strategy further and published his findings in the book “Beat the Dealer”. This book became very popular and brought the idea of using mathematics to improve blackjack play into the public eye. 

Basic strategy helps players reduce the house edge and improve their chances of winning compared to playing blindly. Following it doesn’t guarantee a win every time because the house edge cannot be eliminated, but it gives players some of the best possible odds in the long run. 

Play Blackjack Online For Real Money

At King Casino, you can play blackjack online for real money and enjoy a thrilling gaming experience with a range of options. 

Joining King Casino is simple and straightforward. All you need to do is click ‘Join’, register, make a deposit, and browse our vast array of online casino games. Our platform offers a variety of blackjack versions, allowing you to choose the one that suits you best. 

Playing blackjack online at King Casino is safe and secure. We use the latest technology to ensure your personal information and transactions are protected. This way, you can focus on enjoying the game. 

Our user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate and find your game of choice. Plus, our incredible customer support team are on hand to help you with any queries you may have. 

Join King Casino to play online blackjack at one of the UK’s top casino sites. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, we have something for everyone. Remember to always gamble responsibly.