Bingo, a game loved by millions around the world, has a rich history that spans centuries. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon, the evolution of Bingo is a tale that showcases the appeal of this timeless game of chance.
From its earliest origins to the ability to play Bingo online in the modern day, it’s clear this iconic pastime has stood the test of time.
With this in mind, read on to delve into the fascinating history of Bingo…
The origins
The origins of Bingo can be traced back to Italy in the 16th century. It was initially known as ‘Lo Giuoco del Lotto D’Italia’, a national lottery game that aimed to raise funds for various public projects.
As its popularity grew, the game made its way to France in the late 18th century, where it was embraced by the aristocracy. The French version of the game, known as ‘Le Lotto’, featured a playing card divided into three rows and nine columns.
Beano begins
Fast forward to the early 20th century, when Bingo arrived in North America. Here, the game underwent some modifications and was first introduced as ‘Beano’ at a carnival near Atlanta, Georgia, in the 1920s. The name Beano came about because players would use dried beans to cover the numbers on their cards, and when all of their numbers were called out, they would shout “Beano”.
However, the game acquired the iconic name of Bingo thanks to a New York toy salesman named Edwin S. Lowe. Lowe had seen the game being played at a carnival and took it back to the city where he introduced it to his friends.
This group of enthusiastic players got so excited during a game that one of them accidentally shouted “Bingo”, instead of “Beano”. Intrigued by the potential of this catchy name, Lowe decided to rename and rebrand the game, selling it as his own – under the name of Bingo.
A game-changer
In the mid-20th century, Bingo found its way into mainstream culture. It became a popular feature at county fairs, carnivals, and fundraisers, providing an opportunity for charitable organizations to raise funds for their causes.
Then, with the invention of the internet, Bingo entered a new era. Online Bingo platforms emerged, allowing players to enjoy the game from their own homes. The online version of Bingo retained the essence of the traditional game, offering a digital twist that appealed to a whole new generation of players.
Today, Bingo remains a popular game of chance, both online and at land-based venues. It is cherished as a timeless game of chance that transcends generations.
Therefore, as we delve into the history of Bingo, we can appreciate the remarkable journey it has undertaken. From its Italian roots to its modern-day digital form, Bingo has proven to truly stand the test of time.
So, the next time you partake in a game of Bingo, why not take a moment to appreciate the legacy and heritage behind this cherished pastime?