The history of Baccarat is not as easy to write about as one may think. This is due to the fact that much debate still surrounds its origin with some believing the game to be French and others believing the game to be Italian. The word 'Baccarat' actually means Zero in Italian. However, it also means Zero in French too.
The game was introduced to France in 1490 AD but it is believed by many that it was first originated by an Italian gambler named Felix Falguierein. It is said that Felix originally played the game with a deck of Tarot cards and was based on an Etruscan ritual. Apparently a virgin would throw a nine sided dice! If she threw an 8 or 9 she won and became a priestess, if the result was a 6 or 7 she could live but never roll again and if it were anything less than a 6 she would have to drown herself in the sea. And you thought losing in the casino was bad!
What is known for certain is that in around 1490 AD it was a game played by French nobility. Originally it was illegal and played secretly. However, once it was legalised it was taxed and its proceeds were used for the development of the poor. However, later in history in the era of Napoleon and Louis-Phillipe it was again banned and when it was to be legal once again it gained popularity as a game played for pleasure instead of a generator for social income.
At the time Baccarat was gaining popularity in France it was also proving popular in other parts of the world. In fact Queen Victorias son was even a fan!
Baccarat gained further popularity in the early 20th century when a team named the Greek Syndicate attempted to make themselves the most successful gambling team of all time. The Greek Syndicate employed card counting tecnhiques and read body language culminating in them winning approximately five million dollars!
It was in the late 1950's that Baccarat was brought to America. It was introduced to casinos thanks to a man named Tommy Renzoni. Nowadays, thanks to the internet you can play Vegas style casino Baccarat in the comfort of your own home. Although the rules have varied from its original form the style and popularity of the game have remained constant.
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