The casino is an exciting place to be, a place where champagne glasses clink and people try their hand at games that depend on luck more than skill. Whether you’re an experienced gambler or just starting out, casinos offer an experience that is unlike any other. With music blaring, coins clinking and the thrill of winning, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the game.
But there’s much more to a casino than just the games. Casino security starts on the ground floor, where employees keep a close eye on everyone who enters and leaves to make sure no one is stealing anything, cheating or otherwise going against the rules. Dealers are especially skilled in spotting blatant tricks, such as palming cards or marking dice. And pit bosses and table managers have a wider view, making sure patrons aren’t interacting with each other or changing betting patterns.
Despite these precautions, there’s no guarantee that you won’t lose money at a casino. Gambling probably predates recorded history, with primitive protodice and even carved six-sided dice turning up in ancient archaeological sites. But the modern casino didn’t develop until the 16th century, when a gambling craze swept Europe and Italian aristocrats held private parties called ridotti in their homes. These venues were technically illegal, but the casino was so popular that it rarely got bothered by legal authorities.