Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling - Softcover

Schwartz, David G.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1592403166 ISBN 13: 9781592403165

Publisher: Gotham Books, 2007

Synopsis

A narrative chronicle traces gambling's early emergence from divination rituals through its modern incarnation as a global and cultural diversion, in an account that documents such topics as the practice of casting lots, the invention of playing cards in twelfth-century China, and the role of organized crime in illegal gambling operations. Reprint.

About this title

Synopsis:

This work is the first narrative history of gambling, spanning the Stone Age to the Internet era, examining how it evolved with - and influenced - human civilization. Historian David G. Schwartz tells the epic story of gambling, beginning with its early emergence from divination rituals and ending with today's global gaming culture. In a sweeping, rollicking narrative, Schwartz looks at the betting games people have played since the dawn of history, and reveals that gambling has always been a crucial part of the human experience. Packed with scandals, schemes, and colourful characters from Julius Caesar to Casanova, George Washington to Steve Wynn, "Roll the Bones" is a sure bet to captivate readers from all backgrounds.

About the Author:

David G. Schwartz was born in Atlantic City, where he has worked in casino security and surveillance. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, he earned his Ph.D. in United States history from UCLA. He is the director of the Center for Gaming Research at UNLV, and is the author of the academic books Cutting the Wire and Suburban Xanadu. He is also a consultant and frequent commentator on gambling and related issues.

About this edition

• Publisher: Gotham Books
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 1592403166
• ISBN 13: 9781592403165
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 570