Casinos are places where people can play games of chance for money. They are like indoor amusement parks and can be found in Las Vegas, Atlantic City and other locations. They feature musical shows, lighted fountains and lavish hotels.

History of Casinos

Gambling almost certainly dates back to ancient times, but it was not until the 16th century that casinos as we know them came into existence. In that era, Italian aristocrats often held private parties in what were called ridotti [Source: Schwartz].

The word casino comes from the French term, “club,” and refers to a place where people can meet to play games of chance. They were mainly social clubs for Italians, but gambling soon became popular and spread throughout Europe.

Most popular casino games are roulette, craps and blackjack. They all have mathematically determined odds that give the house an edge over the player, which is known as a “house advantage.”

In addition to making profits from gaming, casinos also provide tax revenue for their home communities. The resulting income helps to keep the local economy strong and supports local businesses.

Comps for Good Players

Casinos make their profit by giving complimentary items (complimentary meals, hotel rooms, tickets to shows or limo service) to players who spend a significant amount of time at the casinos. These are called comps, and players who spend a lot of money receive a much higher number than those who don’t.