One of the most appealing aspects of bingo is its universal appeal, as players of all ages enjoy it. Whether it be the physical game played at retirement communities by older people or the online version played by youngsters, this game never goes out of style.
Little did its inventors know that it would travel far and wide from its birthplace, Italy, and even stand the test of time. But here we are, still playing it and still loving it. However, have you ever wondered, “How old is bingo?” Rest assured because that is what our guide is here for: to explore the origins of this wonderful game of luck and strategy.
The Origins of Bingo: 16th-Century Italy
The history of bingo is quite an interesting one. To understand how bingo started, we will have to dive back into 1530 in Italy. That is where the crude ancestor of the current bingo was born, called Il Gioco del Lotto d’Italia (Italian lottery).
The rectangular lotto boards used in this massively popular game consisted of 27 squares with 9 across and 3 down. Players were handed out cards that had numbered squares on them, and they drew the winning numbers from a sack. Believe it or not, the modern version of this game is still played on Saturdays in Italy.
The Italian lottery system played a key part in the evolution of other European games of chance. With their reliance on random number selection and prize distribution, lotteries and raffles—which shared a lineage with the Italian lottery—became widespread.
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Bingo Travels to France and Germany
The popularity of bingo surged so high, that Italy’s pre-revolutionary French neighbours caught on with it. During the 1770s, the French aristocracy enjoyed playing Le Lotto, another version of the game. This version used cards with 27 squares (3 rows, 9 columns), and every row had four blank squares along with 5 numbers that were placed at random.
Meanwhile, the columns had numbers from 1 to 10, 11 to 20, 21 to 30, 31 to 40, etc. They also had a recruited caller to call out the numbers, and the players who had those numbers covered them using a wooden chip. Whoever covered a horizontal row first was the winner.
Next in the bingo timeline is Germany where the game took on an educational twist. Teachers used lotto-style mechanics to help students learn spelling, history, or maths. This practical approach showed how a game of chance could also serve as a teaching tool.
The American Bingo Boom
During the bingo evolution, the game experienced phenomenal success in the UK and then made its way to other countries, including the United States. It was widely popular in North America under the name “beano”, named for the dried beans used to cover numbers.
Hugh J. Ward was the one who introduced the game in North America and even wrote a book about the game’s rules in 1933. However, it was in 1929 when a toy salesman from Brooklyn, Edwin S. Lowe, saw the game being played at a carnival in Georgia.
Impressed by its simplicity and thrill, Lowe brought it to New York and developed a version with five rows and five columns that he asked a few friends to play. It’s said that one woman in particular was so thrilled to win that she shouted, “Bingo” in excitement and that’s how Lowe found the game’s name.
After he started selling the game, Lowe also collaborated with a mathematician from Columbia University and created over 6000 unique bingo cards, fuelling the game’s popularity in the United States.
Bingo’s Role in Fundraising and Community Building
The game drew so much love and fascination that one day, a Pennsylvanian Catholic priest asked Lowe if he could use bingo to raise funds for the church. Well, the game didn’t disappoint as it became a major attraction in churches for fundraising. Records show that by 1934, nearly 10,000 bingo games were played every week.
Bingo also became a hit in nursing facilities and retirement homes. The game’s simplicity made it a popular choice for playing with the staff, residents, and visitors. Slowly, it evolved into a social activity that brought people together.
Modern Bingo: From Halls to Online Platforms
The internet gave bingo a whole new dimension, allowing players to skip traditional halls and play from home. Online platforms provide a wide range of games, from classic 75-ball and 90-ball bingo to innovative variations.
Online bingo has expanded its appeal through various innovations. Themed bingo games cater to diverse interests, virtual events foster a sense of community, and mobile apps offer convenience. These advancements have made bingo more engaging and accessible to a wider audience.
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Cultural Significance of Bingo Across the Globe
Bingo has made a cultural impact worldwide and has evolved into a social phenomenon as anyone can play this simple game. Bingo halls often serve as social hubs, bringing together people from all over. These gatherings often extend beyond the game, encouraging friendships and a sense of community among players.
In some cultures, bingo is associated with festive occasions and celebrations, while in others, it’s a regular social activity enjoyed by families and friends. Bingo has even made its way into pop culture. You might have seen it in movies, TV shows, or even music videos. It’s often used to add a bit of fun and nostalgia to the scene.
The game’s popularity has extended far beyond its origins. In countries like the UK, bingo enjoys a particularly strong following, with dedicated bingo halls and televised games. In Asia, variations of bingo are played during festivals and celebrations, bringing families and communities together.
Learn More About Bingo (FAQs)
How Did Bingo Get Its Name?
When toy salesman Edwin S. Lowe was testing out his bingo variation with his friends, one of them excitedly shouted “bingo” upon winning. That’s how bingo got its name.
Why Was Bingo Popular in Churches?
Bingo became popular in churches majorly as a fundraising tool, however, it also brought together the community.
When Did Online Bingo Become Popular?
Thanks to the internet, online bingo emerged in the late 1990s but gained popularity in the early 2000s.
What Is the Difference Between Traditional and Modern Bingo Games?
Traditional bingo often takes place in dedicated halls with physical cards and a caller. However, modern bingo has transitioned to online platforms that offer convenience, diverse game variations, and interactive features like chat rooms and themed games.
How Has Bingo Evolved Over the Centuries?
The ancestors of bingo have seen some major evolution as compared to the version that we play today. It began as a form of lottery in Italy and gradually transformed into a form of entertainment.
What Are Some Famous Bingo Traditions Around the World?
Among some of the famous bingo traditions in the world, there’s one in Italy called “tombola”, which is a popular Christmas tradition.
Are There Variations of Bingo in Other Countries?
Yes, there are variations of bingo that are played in other countries. For instance, in Spain, “lotería” features cards with pictures instead of numbers.
From Past to Present: Bingo’s Legacy
From its 16th-century Italian beginnings to today’s online communities, Bingo has proven to be a timeless game. The enduring appeal of bingo lies in its simplicity, social nature, and ability to bring people together for a shared experience. Whether played in traditional halls, online platforms, or via an app, bingo continues to be a beloved pastime that transcends cultural boundaries. Just like a craps game guide or exploring crash game casino strategies, bingo offers a unique blend of excitement and community engagement that resonates with players worldwide.
Next time you join a game, you’ll know you’re taking part in a tradition that has spanned centuries and continues to bring people together.
Now that you know all about the history of bingo, try to understand slot machine gameplay by reading the article next.
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